Anambra police raise alarm over motorcycles linked to emerging robbery pattern
By Chibuzo Obidike | IchieTimes
The Anambra State Police Command has raised an alarm over an emerging pattern of robbery and other criminal activities allegedly involving the use of motorcycles across the state.
The Command’s warning comes after recent incidents, including the arrest of a motorcycle rider found in possession of a pistol during a stop and search operation in Nnewi.
In another incident under investigation in Aguleri, a motorcycle rider was reportedly attacked and dispossessed of his motorcycle and other belongings. The attack resulted in the death of the victim.
The Police said preliminary observations suggest that some criminal elements may be exploiting motorcycles to move around and carry out robberies and other offences, targeting unsuspecting residents and fellow motorcycle users.
The Command is also concerned about motorcycle owners who fail to properly register their motorcycles or keep valid ownership documents.
According to the Police, poor documentation can make it difficult to trace stolen motorcycles or determine whether they have subsequently been used in criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has directed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to intensify engagement with motorcycle riders’ associations, community leaders, vigilante groups and other stakeholders.
The Police said the move is aimed at strengthening community intelligence, improving motorcycle identification and documentation, and preventing criminals from exploiting motorcycles for criminal activities.
Residents have been advised to be extra vigilant.
The Command urged motorcycle owners and riders to properly register their motorcycles and keep ownership documents readily available.
Residents were also advised to report suspicious motorcycle movements, persons or activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency communication channels.
The Police further appealed to community leaders, motorcycle riders’ associations and other stakeholders to provide credible information that could help identify and disrupt criminal elements.
The Command stressed that security is a shared responsibility and urged residents not to confront suspected criminals themselves, but to alert the Police immediately.
