Criminals have apparently infiltrated the state security organization, “Agunechemba,” and are now allegedly participating in robberies and kidnappings around the state, according to Ken Emeakayi, the Special Adviser on Community Security to the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
Emeakayi issued the warning in response to residents’ growing worries that some alleged “Agunechemba” agents have been using firearms to harass and extort them, as well as setting up roadblocks to demand varying amounts of money from drivers.
The state governor introduced “Agunechemba” and “Operation Udo-ga-chi” in January to support police operations to protect citizens in the face of the state’s increasing insecurity.
Emeakayi voiced dissatisfaction about criminal elements infiltrating the Agunechemba ranks and gave his word that a thorough vetting mechanism is in place to find and eliminate those damaging the agency’s reputation.
He made this claim in a verified voice message that was extensively shared throughout the state on Saturday. He said that he wrote the message to address the growing concerns and responses brought on by the development in an effort to rebuild public trust in “Agunechemba.”
“It is unacceptable for Agunechemba operatives to extort the same people they are supposed to protect and act with impunity,” he said. Roadblocks and checkpoints cannot be set up by Agunechemba agents.”Operation Udo ga Achi and Agunechemba were created by the governor to expel criminals from the state, not to torture locals.
“There are disturbing findings that some individuals now masquerade as Agunechemba members by day, only to engage in kidnapping and armed robbery at night.
“Many of these unverified operatives have refused to undergo the mandatory profiling process, which has delayed their remuneration and raised suspicions about their legitimacy.”
He warned that anyone claiming to be a security operative without undergoing proper profiling will henceforth be treated as a criminal.
“The Anambra State Homeland Security law is very clear—we must know where every gun is and who is carrying it,” he emphasised, stressing that full identification of every security agent is a legal requirement.
“We urged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity, not just by known criminals, but also by questionable members of the security outfit.
“People should speak out when they see Agunechemba operatives misbehave. Record their location, identify their vehicles if possible, and we will ensure they are brought to justice,” he added.
Emeakayi reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring public trust in the security system and maintaining law and order across Anambra communities.
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