The Anambra State Police Command has arrested six individuals for allegedly using terminally ill persons to solicit alms from the public under false pretence.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Thursday. He said the suspects were apprehended during a raid on an uncompleted building in Isu Village, Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.
The operation, carried out by a joint team of officers from the Oba Divisional Police Headquarters and local vigilantes, took place on April 16 around 6:30 p.m.
The suspects—identified as Doris Basil (28), Peter Ezedike (38), Susan Monday (27), Ogechi Okoro (27), Solomon Sunday (29), and Kenneth Achi (29)—were found in the act of using visibly ill individuals, allegedly suffering from conditions such as brain tumours and breast cancer, to beg for money.
Also recovered at the scene were six mobile phones and ₦82,400 in cash, primarily in smaller denominations (₦50, ₦100, and ₦200 notes). Four sick persons were rescued and provided with first aid before being moved for further medical treatment and safe reintegration with their families.
Ikenga said investigations are ongoing, and the relatives of the exploited victims will be interrogated to determine their involvement.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the act, calling it a disturbing reflection of societal moral decline. He emphasized that the exploitation of sick individuals for financial gain falls under Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act, which classifies obtaining property under false pretence as a felony punishable by up to three years in prison.
The CP assured the public that the suspects will face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
