Anambra secures conviction of three illegal revenue collectors

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By Sunny A. David, Awka

The Anambra State Anti-Touting Agency, in collaboration with the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue (AIRS), has successfully arrested and secured the conviction of three individuals involved in illegal revenue collection across the state.

This development follows a series of intensified enforcement operations aimed at cracking down on unauthorized levy collection and other related criminal activities that have disrupted public order and economic activities in the state.

According to officials, the arrests were made during coordinated raids at known hotspots. Among those apprehended was Abuchi Okechukwu, arrested at UNIZIK Junction for unlawfully extorting money from motorists in violation of state revenue laws.

Also arrested was Monday Nwaoka, a native of Izzi in Ebonyi State, who was caught at Regina Junction collecting levies from tricycle operators under false pretenses.

In a related incident, Chukwubike Ezenwudo, from Amaesi in Ekwulobia, was found in possession of Indian hemp, highlighting the broader challenge of drug related crimes in the area.

The suspects were handed over to the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service for investigation and were later charged to court. They were convicted and each sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

Residents and local business owners have expressed relief and satisfaction with the state government’s decisive action. Many believe the arrests will help restore order, especially in areas where illegal tolls and extortion have long hampered lawful business activities.

In a statement following the convictions, the Anambra State Government reaffirmed its commitment to stamping out touting, illegal revenue collection, and drug-related offenses.

The government urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

“These convictions send a strong signal that unlawful activities will no longer be tolerated in Anambra,” a spokesperson for the AIRS stated.

“We encourage the public to cooperate with law enforcement as we continue our efforts to sanitize the state’s revenue system and restore public trust.”

The agency also announced that more enforcement actions are planned in the coming weeks, as part of the broader goal of strengthening law and order throughout the State.