Police arrest two in Abuja over ‘diversion of cement shipments’

The Anambra police command says it has arrested two suspects for allegedly diverting and illegally converting cement shipments across Anambra, Edo, Rivers, and Delta states.

In a statement issued on Monday, Tochukwu Ikenga, police spokesperson in Anambra, said the suspects– Mmaduabuchi Udo and Abubakar Babangida – were arrested in Abuja on June 23.

Ikenga said the suspects were operating on social media where they profiled cement dealers and obtained sensitive business information from their targets.

He added that they used such information to divert cement consignments meant for legitimate businesses.

“The arrest followed an intelligence-led investigation, and the suspects have so far provided useful information to assist ongoing efforts to track down other members of the syndicate,” the statement reads.

The police spokesperson cautioned members of the public against sharing business-related information online, especially on social media, which he noted is increasingly being exploited by criminal groups.

Ikenga said the suspects would be charged in court after the conclusion of investigations.

He quoted the state commissioner of police as reaffirming the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and economic interests in Anambra.

He also urged residents to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through its emergency lines.