Rise of Fake Revenue Collectors in Anambra: Five Arrested in Nnewi

The Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AIRS) has made significant strides in combating illegal revenue collection, arresting five individuals in Nnewi for impersonating government revenue collectors.

The suspects, identified as Edwin Okonkwo, Sunny Obasi, Christian Oziri, Christian Chinedu, and Nnamdi Nworie, were caught in the act while demanding payments ranging from N300 to N500 from unsuspecting tricycle riders at various locations throughout the town.

During a press briefing in Awka on Saturday, AIRS Special Commander Nathan Obikwelu emphasized that these arrests align with the directives of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo aimed at eradicating illegal revenue activities in the state. “The suspects were apprehended for contravening the Anambra State Government’s laws, which strictly prohibit unauthorized revenue collection from both tricycle riders and commercial bus operators,” Obikwelu stated.

He further condemned the actions of the suspects, asserting that the state government remains firmly committed to ensuring that all forms of illegal cash collections are terminated. He confirmed that the individuals would face legal consequences, and a full prosecution process would ensue in court.

This recent crackdown follows earlier actions taken by the AIRS, which reported the arrest of four other individuals engaged in similar fraudulent activities in Onitsha. Those suspects—Ikenna Udoji, Kosi Iwobi, Chidera Ogbogu, and Monday—were caught collecting amounts as high as N1,200 from keke riders near the Army Gate area.

The Anambra State government continues to ramp up its efforts against these illegal operations, making clear its stance that revenue collection must remain within legal and regulated frameworks to protect citizens from exploitation. As the state moves forward, officials are urging citizens to report any suspicious activities to authorities, reinforcing community involvement in the fight against corruption and fraud.