Lawrence Ndubeze, Awka
The Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade has arraigned seven suspected illegal revenue collectors arrested in Amansea, Awka North Local Government Area.
The suspects were nabbed at the Amansea butcher market along the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, where they allegedly extorted motorists and residents while in possession of dangerous weapons.
They were first paraded at the OCHA Brigade headquarters in Awka before being taken to the Magistrate Court in Amawbia, Awka South, for arraignment.
Managing Director of the OCHA Brigade, Comrade Celestine Anere, said the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal revenue collection, which the state government has strictly banned—especially the collection of cash levies.
He said OCHA operatives demanded proper identification from the group during the operation, but the suspects failed to provide any credible documents, leading to their arrest.
Comrade Anere added that the brigade would remain vigilant throughout the festive season to prevent criminals from exploiting residents or inflicting undue hardship.
Among those arrested were Mr. David Ikemefuna and Mr. Ifeanyi Stanley, who admitted to working as contracted revenue collectors for individuals identified as Mr. Jude and Mr. Olise. They claimed they believed they were performing legitimate duties and were not instructed to use POS machines.
At the Magistrate Court, the presiding magistrate ordered the remand of the suspects at the correctional centre and adjourned the case to January 2026 for further hearing.
