A Joint Security Team comprising officers from the Oba Divisional Police Headquarters and Anambra Vigilante operatives has arrested six individuals suspected of exploiting ill persons to solicit alms from the public.
The arrest took place on Tuesday, April 16, 2025, at about 6:30 pm during a coordinated raid on an uncompleted building located in Isu Village, Oba. The suspects were identified as Doris Basil (28), Peter Ezedike (38), Susan Monday (27), Ogechi Okoro (27), Solomon Sunday (29), and Kenneth Achi (29).
During the operation, security operatives recovered six mobile phones and a total sum of ₦82,400 in small denominations of ₦50, ₦100, and ₦200 notes. Four sick individuals — reportedly suffering from brain tumour, breast cancer, and other terminal illnesses — were found at the location and have been taken into protective custody. First aid was administered to the victims, and arrangements are underway for their medical treatment and safe return to their respective homes.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc, mnips, Ph.D., expressed deep concern over the disturbing trend of exploiting vulnerable individuals for criminal gain. He cited Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, which criminalizes obtaining property by false pretense—a felony punishable by up to three years imprisonment.
CP Orutugu has also directed investigators to trace and interrogate the relatives of the sick persons to determine if they had any involvement in the alleged scheme.
All six suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
