Anambra Anti-Touting Squad officers during an enforcement operation in Onitsha where six suspects were arrested for alleged illegal revenue collection.
The Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency has arrested six individuals suspected of engaging in illegal revenue collection and extortion targeting traders and commercial operators in parts of the state, particularly in Onitsha, the state’s commercial hub.
The arrests were carried out during coordinated enforcement operations aimed at curbing touting and unauthorised levies across key business areas.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the agency’s spokesperson, Karen James, the operation is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal revenue agents operating within the state’s markets and public spaces.
The agency confirmed that the suspects were picked up during enforcement exercises in Onitsha and surrounding areas. They include:
- Monday Chukwuka (Ezza North LGA, Ebonyi State)
- Sunday Chinweze (Awka North LGA, Anambra State)
- Uche Nweke (Ikwo LGA, Ebonyi State)
- Ekene Onyedimma (Orsu LGA, Imo State)
- Anakwe Uchenna (Oji River LGA, Enugu State)
- Ugochukwu Ukadike (Ohafia LGA, Abia State)
The statement noted that preliminary findings suggest the suspects operated independently and were allegedly involved in collecting unlawful levies from traders within designated areas.
The suspects were arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Onitsha North Local Government Area. They were granted bail under strict conditions, including a ₦200,000 bond, a ₦300,000 fine, and provision of a Level 17 civil servant as surety.
READ ALSO
- Jonathan Meets Tinubu at Aso Rock Ahead of 2027
- Tinubu Pushes Urgent Social Security Reforms In West Africa
- Anambra Anti-Touting Squad Arrests Six Over Alleged Illegal Revenue
The case has been adjourned until July 1, 2026, for further hearing.
Reiterating its mandate, the Anti-Touting Squad declared zero tolerance for illegal revenue collection, extortion, and harassment of residents and business operators.
The agency also warned that enforcement operations would continue across the state to dismantle touting networks and restore order in public revenue systems.
Residents were encouraged to report cases of extortion or illegal levies to relevant authorities, with assurances that all reports would be treated confidentially.
