Security operatives in Anambra State have arrested six people suspected of exploiting individuals with serious health conditions by using them to solicit alms from unsuspecting members of the public.
In a press release on Thursday, the spokesperson for the state police command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the suspects were caught in an uncompleted structure located in Isu Village, Oba, within the Idemili South Local Government Area.
Ikenga explained that a combined team of officers from the Oba Division and local vigilante members carried out the operation around 6:30 p.m. on April 16.
During the raid, police recovered six phones and ₦82,400 in various small currency notes.
Authorities also rescued four seriously ill individuals at the site, believed to be suffering from conditions such as brain tumors, breast cancer, and other life-threatening illnesses.
The victims received initial medical attention and arrangements were made for them to receive further care and be returned safely to their families.
Those apprehended were identified as Doris Basil (28), Peter Ezedike (38), Susan Monday (27), Ogechi Okoro (27), Solomon Sunday (29), and Kenneth Achi (29).
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, expressed deep concern over the incident and noted that the act falls under Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, which involves obtaining by false pretence and is punishable by up to three years in prison.
He also instructed that the relatives of the victims be interrogated to determine if they were complicit in the exploitation.
The suspects are expected to face prosecution once investigations are finalized.