By Ovat Abeng
The Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA), Anambra State, have arrested six suspected over alleged extortion of traders in Onitsha market.
The Agency’s Spokesperson, Karen James, who disclosed this in a statement in Onitsha, on Thursday, gave the names of the arrested suspects as:
Monday Chukwuka (Ebonyi State, Ezza North LGA, Effion).
Sunday Chinweze (Anambra State, Awka North LGA, Ebenebe; Address: 37 Awalite Street, Okpoko).
Uche Nweke (Ebonyi State, Ikwo LGA, Ameekah; Address: No. 20 St. Lwangas, Okpoko).
Ekene Onyedimma (Imo State, Orsu LGA, Awo Idemili; Address: 59 B-Line, Okpoko).
Anakwe Uchenna (Enugu State, Oji River LGA, Achi; Address: No. 9 Nimo Street, Fegge).
Ugochukwu Ukadike (Abia State, Ohafia LGA, Nkporo; Address: No. 3 Ogbunike Street, Okpoko).
She said they were arrested in a coordinated operation within Onitsha and its environs.
According to James, the suspects were apprehended for allegedly engaging in the unlawful collection of levies and extorting traders and commercial operators within the commercial city of the State.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects operated independently, without authorization from any recognized government body or agency.
“Following their arrest, the suspects were arraigned before a competent Magistrate Court in Onitsha North Local Government Area, where they were subsequently remanded in a correctional facility pending the determination of the case.
The court granted bail under stringent conditions, including a ₦200,000 bail bond, a ₦300,000 fine, and the provision of a verified Level 17 civil servant as surety and that the matter has been adjourned to July 1, 2026, for further hearing.
“SASA reiterates its zero-tolerance policy against illegal levies, extortion, and all forms of economic sabotage.
The Agency remains resolute in its mission to restore order, protect legitimate businesses, and uphold a safe, transparent, and lawful business environment across Anambra State,” the spokesperson noted.
