Imo Police arrest 25 suspects, recover firearms, drugs, and vehicles in a major crackdown on criminal networks across the state

The Imo State Police Command has arrested 25 suspects involved in crimes including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, drug trafficking, and child exploitation, recovering firearms and illicit drugs in the process.

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The announcement was made in a press statement by the Command’s Spokesperson, Henry Okoye, on Tuesday.

Okoye disclosed that the operation led to the seizure of four assault rifles, 25 cartridges, two vehicles, three motorcycles, and 35 bags of suspected cannabis sativa.

Additional items recovered include stolen aluminum roofing sheets and other incriminating exhibits.

Among the arrested are Eririogu Chukwuebuka, 28, of Egwuede Atta, Njaba LGA; Ezemonye Orji, 32, of Edda, Afikpo, Ebonyi State; and Kelechi Michael, 28, from Ubowuala, Emekuku, Owerri North LGA, who are alleged to have terrorised Njaba LGA and committed the 2021 murders of HRH Eze Durueburuo of Okwudo and HRH Eze Sampson Osunwa of Ihebinowere Autonomous Community.

Authorities also recovered an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, magazines, ammunition, and criminal charms from them.

In a separate operation, police intercepted a Ford J5 bus at Nkweshi, Oguta LGA, arresting two suspected drug peddlers transporting approximately 1,200kg of cannabis and other prohibited substances to criminal networks in Eziorsu, Oguta LGA.

Furthermore, operatives apprehended notorious gang leader Ezeh Chinonso Ugochukwu, 31, at the boundary between Nnebukwu and Orsu Obodo, leading to the dismantling of a suspected ESN camp.

Officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, LAR rifle, pump-action gun, and 22 rounds of live ammunition.

The suspect confessed to multiple murders, including a pastor and a pregnant woman.

Okoye confirmed that all suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody for further investigation and will be charged in court.

Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma, recently promoted, reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks and enhancing public safety.

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He urged citizens to remain vigilant and support law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities via 0803 477 3600.