Ex-Convict ‘Timaya’ Nabbed Over Bloody POS Robbery Spree

​AWKA — The reign of terror unleashed on Point of Sale (POS) operators in the Anambra State capital has hit a major roadblock. Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have apprehended 27-year-old Chidera Anthony Eleh, popularly known as “Timaya,” for masterminding a string of brazen, motorcycle-assisted armed robberies targeting cash vendors across the metropolis.

​The swift arrest follows days of public panic sparked by a chilling viral surveillance video. The footage, which circulated widely across social media platforms, captured the ruthless gang striking a busy POS hub near the strategic Aroma Junction. The assailants were seen brandishing lethal weapons, terrorizing operators, and carting away huge sums of daily collections in broad daylight.

​Inside the Police Sting

​Acting on direct orders from the command leadership, specialized intelligence units launched a manhunt. This culminated in an intelligence-led afternoon raid on October 9, 2026, which led to Timaya’s capture.

​During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered a cache of weapons and tools used to facilitate the heists, including:

• ​An operational motorcycle used for swift getaways through traffic bottlenecks
• ​A sharp axe
• ​A heavy-duty cutlass
• ​Various incriminating items linked to the crime syndicate

​Manhunt for Accomplices Intensifies

​Confirming the breakthrough in an official statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed that the suspect is currently cooling his heels in police custody.

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​Investigators have discovered that Timaya is a hardened ex-convict who wasted no time returning to a life of crime after regaining freedom. Detectives are working round the clock to unmask and track down fleeing members of the syndicate.

​”The command will not condone any form of criminality or economic sabotage targeting innocent business owners striving to make an honest living,” police sources hinted, assuring residents that maximum security measures are being reinforced around commercial hubs in Awka.