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By Nkiru Anakor
The Anambrs State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) has arraigned three suspected illegal revenue collectors before Chief Magistrate Onitsha at the Magistrate Court 2 in Onitsha North Local Government Area.
The suspects , Michael Uwaoma, Ndubuisi Aniukwu, and their alleged sponsor, Anthony Onyekwelu were accused of extorting money from traders and commercial operators at Mgbuka Obosi and Umusiome Junction in Nkpor.
Following their arraignment, the court ordered their remand at the Onitsha Correctional Centre.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the SASA Media Aide, Amb. Karen James, said the suspects were apprehended during enforcement operations while allegedly extorting members of the public.
She explained that the arrests was part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal revenue collection and extortion across the state.
“In line with this mandate, SASA operatives arrested three suspects in separate operations within Onitsha and its environs namely, Michael Uwaoma and Ndubuisi Aniukwu who were apprehended for allegedly extorting traders and commercial operators at Mgbuka Obosi and Umusiome Junction, Nkpor, respectively,” she said.
According to her, preliminary investigations revealed that Ndubuisi Aniukwu acted under the directive of Anthony Onyekwelu, who allegedly imposed a daily remittance target on him.
The court, however, granted the suspects bail under strict conditions, including a ₦100,000 bail bond, a ₦300,000 fine, and the provision of a verified Level 17 civil servant as surety.
The case was adjourned to June 3, 2026, for further hearing.
The media aide reiterated that SASA maintains a zero-tolerance stance against illegal levies and extortion, adding that the agency remains committed to restoring order, protecting legitimate businesses, and ensuring a safe environment for residents and traders.
She also urged members of the public to report incidents of illegal collection or harassment to the appropriate authorities.
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