Imo State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping, arresting four suspected kidnappers in a raid on their hideout in Irete, Owerri West Local Council.
The operation, led by Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma, also resulted in the recovery of arms, including three fabricated guns, six rounds of live cartridges, and three machetes.
The suspects, identified as Sulieman Ahmed (26), Mohammed Salisu (31), Gambo Jefta (26), all from Jigawa State, and Gabriel Ogbuzuru from Ebonyi State, were arrested on March 2, 2025, following credible intelligence and multiple complaints from residents about repeated attacks and abductions by unknown gunmen.
According to DSP Henry Okoye, the command’s spokesperson, “This operation is part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements responsible for the recent surge in abductions and other violent crimes in the area.”
The suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution.
In a follow-up operation on March 3, 2025, CP Aboki Danjuma led further combing operations in the area to apprehend other fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police has also intensified security measures, including patrols and collaboration with local vigilantes, to restore peace in the region.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police through the command’s emergency hotlines.
This development comes after a separate operation by the Imo State Police Command, where four suspected kidnappers were killed and five others apprehended in a raid on their hideout in Ezioha, Eziama community, Mbaitoli Local Government Area.