The Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue, in collaboration with the State Anti-Touting Agency, has arrested and prosecuted some illegal revenue collectors as part of efforts to rid the state of criminal elements posing as revenue collectors.
This was contained in a statement by the Chairman of AIRS, Greg Ezeilo, on Sunday.
Ezeilo stated that the agency has intensified its enforcement operations against illegal levy collection and related criminal activities across the state.
Ezeilo further disclosed that in a series of well-coordinated raids on identified black spots, operatives apprehended individuals involved in illegal revenue collection, adding that the state government will continue its clampdown on activities disrupting public order and economic stability.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to law enforcement and the elimination of touting, drug-related offences, and unauthorised revenue collection.
He said, “We urge the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities as the state intensified its enforcement operations against illegal levy collection and related criminal activities.
“These operations send a strong message that illegal practices will no longer be tolerated in Anambra State.
“We call on citizens to support these efforts by being vigilant and cooperating with law enforcement agencies.
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“More raids are planned in the coming weeks, as part of the administration’s broader objective to sanitise the revenue system and restore public trust in government processes.”
According to multiple reports, some of the suspects were arrested at UNIZIK Junction for unlawfully extorting motorists, contravening established state revenue laws, while some others were apprehended at Regina Junction, Awka, where they were reportedly collecting levies from tricycle operators under false pretences.
In a related development, one was caught in possession of Indian hemp, highlighting the ongoing issue of drug abuse and trafficking in the region.
“The arrested suspects were transferred to the Anambra Internal Revenue for further investigation and subsequently arraigned in court.
“They were convicted and sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for their offences.
“The swift and strategic actions by the agency have drawn commendation from residents and business owners in affected areas, who expressed relief at the removal of notorious elements that have long disrupted peace and hindered lawful commerce,” the statement added.