OCHA BRIGADE ARRESTS SEVEN OVER ILLEGAL REVENUE COLLECTION IN ANAMBRA
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
Operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) have arrested seven individuals accused of engaging in illegal revenue collection at the Amansea Butcher Market along the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway in Awka North Local Government Area.
The suspects were paraded on Tuesday at the OCHA Brigade headquarters before being arraigned at the Magistrate Court in Amawbia, Awka South LGA.
According to the Managing Director of the OCHA Brigade, Celestine Anere, the arrests followed persistent reports of illegal levies being collected despite the state government’s ban on unauthorised revenue activities.
He said the suspects were caught extorting motorists and residents while armed with various weapons.
“Before arresting the suspects, the OCHA Brigade team requested proper identification, but none could provide valid credentials,” Anere stated.
He added that the brigade would remain on high alert throughout the festive period to prevent extortion and protect residents from criminal intimidation.
Among those arrested were David Ikemefuna and Ifeanyi Stanley, who admitted to working as contracted revenue collectors for two individuals identified as Jude and Olise. They claimed they believed they were carrying out legitimate government duties, though without authorisation.
At the Magistrate Court, the seven suspects were remanded in a correctional facility, and the case was adjourned to January 2026.
Tuesday’s arrests follow similar clampdowns by the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service in areas including Umueze Anam, Umueri and Nkpor, where illegal revenue collectors had targeted transport operators and traders.
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