ANAMBRA POLICE ARREST EX-CONVICT ‘TIMAYA’ OVER ALLEGED ROBBERY OF POS OPERATORS IN AWKA

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old ex-convict, Chidera Anthony Eleh, popularly known as “Timaya,” over his alleged involvement in a series of robberies targeting Point-of-Sale (POS) operators and other unsuspecting victims in Awka, the state capital.

The suspect was arrested on Friday, October 9, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation, according to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.

The police said Eleh was suspected of participating in motorcycle-assisted robberies in which POS operators and other victims were allegedly targeted and dispossessed of their valuables.

The arrest comes days after CCTV footage showing armed men robbing POS operators in broad daylight at Aroma Junction in Awka circulated on social media, prompting public concern over the safety of small business owners in the area.

The footage reportedly showed the suspected robbers approaching POS stands and taking cash before escaping on a commercial tricycle. The incident occurred on Sunday, October 4, 2026, although the exact amount stolen and the number of operators affected were not independently established in initial reports.

According to the police, operatives recovered a motorcycle, an axe, a cutlass and other items suspected to be connected with the alleged criminal activities during the operation that led to Eleh’s arrest.

The command said the recovered items would form part of the ongoing investigation into the suspect’s alleged involvement in the robberies.

Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that Eleh remained in custody as investigators worked to establish the full extent of his alleged activities and identify other individuals who might have participated in the incidents.

The police have not publicly disclosed the specific evidence linking the suspect to each reported robbery or confirmed whether he has been formally charged before a court.

The command said the arrest formed part of its sustained efforts to track down suspects involved in motorcycle-assisted robberies and other related offences across Anambra State.

The Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Oji Ama, reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that individuals found responsible for criminal activities are brought to justice in accordance with the law.

The police also urged POS operators, commercial motorcycle riders and other business owners to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station.

The arrest has drawn attention to security concerns among POS operators, who regularly handle cash and carry out financial transactions in busy commercial areas, making them potential targets for armed robbers.

Residents and business owners have continued to call for stronger security measures, including increased patrols and improved surveillance around major junctions and commercial centres in Awka.

While the arrest represents a development in the investigation into the reported robberies, the police have yet to establish publicly whether Eleh acted alone or as part of a larger criminal network.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.

Street News Reporters will continue to follow the case as the police release further details about the investigation and any possible prosecution.