The Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency has arrested six suspects for alleged illegal revenue collection and extortion in parts of the state.

The suspects were arrested during enforcement operations targeting touting and unauthorised levies, particularly around Onitsha, the commercial hub of Anambra State.

In a statement on Wednesday, the spokesperson for the agency, Karen James, said the exercise was part of its mandate to rid the state of illegal revenue agents.

The suspects were later arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Onitsha North Local Government Area and granted bail with stringent conditions. The case was adjourned to July 1, 2026, for further hearing.

The statement read, “Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency hereby notifies the general public of its sustained and uncompromising enforcement operations targeted at eradicating illegal revenue collection, extortion, and touting activities across the state.

“In line with its statutory mandate, SASA operatives recently carried out coordinated operations within Onitsha and its environs, leading to the arrest of the following suspects: Monday Chukwuka from Ezza North LGA, Ebonyi State; Sunday Chinweze from Awka North LGA, Anambra State; Uche Nweke from Ikwo LGA, Ebonyi State; Ekene Onyedimma from Orsu LGA, Imo State; Anakwe Uchenna from Oji River LGA, Enugu State; and Ugochukwu Ukadike from Ohafia LGA, Abia State.

“The suspects were apprehended for allegedly engaging in the unlawful collection of levies and extorting traders and commercial operators within designated areas.”

It added that preliminary investigations showed they operated independently.

The court granted bail on conditions including a ₦200,000 bond, a ₦300,000 fine, and a Level 17 civil servant as surety.

The agency reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on illegal levies and extortion, warning that it would sustain enforcement operations across the state.

It urged residents to report cases of extortion, harassment or illegal revenue collection to the appropriate authorities, assuring that such reports would be treated confidentially. (PUNCH)