In a sweeping operation targeting criminal networks across Imo State, the Imo State Police Command has arrested no fewer than 2,785 suspects linked to various offences, including armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and child trafficking.

 

According to a press release signed by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, the arrests followed six months of coordinated operations led by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in collaboration with other tactical divisions and formations.

 

Among the major breakthroughs were the rescue of 58 kidnapped victims and 42 trafficked children, many of whom have since been safely reunited with their families.

 

The Command also made significant weapons recoveries, including:

 

14 AK-47 rifles

 

20 pump-action shotguns

 

2 general-purpose machine guns (GPMGs)

 

4 fabricated rocket launchers

 

7 gas-cylinder explosives

 

Locally made hand grenades

 

Assorted live ammunition and cartridges

 

Criminal charms and other illicit materials

 

 

Notorious Gang Busted

 

Some of the key suspects apprehended include:

 

Amechi Onyebuchi (38)

 

Ozioma Ihedoro (39)

 

Cyprian Ikpegbunam (50)

 

Uchenna Opara (30)

 

 

These individuals, police said, were part of a notorious gang behind repeated attacks on security personnel and public infrastructure in Njaba Local Government Area. They reportedly confessed to the kidnap and murder of one Emmanuel Oguzie, allegedly on the orders of a gang leader known as Asari, who remains at large and is on the police wanted list.

 

Kidnapping Syndicate Dismantled

 

In another operation, two suspected kidnappers — Uche Nwachukwu (24) and Chinonso Ozirim (32) — were arrested for abducting Mr. Anayo Iwuoha from his residence in Akabo, Ikeduru LGA on June 20, 2025. The suspects allegedly held the victim at Ozirim’s house and collected a ransom of N2.2 million. A joint operation by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and local vigilantes led to the victim’s rescue and the arrest of the culprits.

 

Cultist Arrested After Two Years on the Run

 

In a related case, Wisdom Chinazaekpere Ogbonna (36), a known member of the Vikings Confraternity, was arrested in Orlu LGA. Ogbonna had been evading arrest for two years after he and three others reportedly butchered a young man, nicknamed Pikin, in a case of mistaken identity. Initially arrested for burglary and theft, further profiling linked him to the cult-related murder.

 

All suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

 

A Firm Warning to Criminals

 

DSP Okoye emphasized that the Imo State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, remains committed to ridding the state of criminal elements.

 

“These operations underscore our resolve to ensure that Imo State remains unsafe for criminals. We urge members of the public to continue cooperating with the police by providing credible information,” he stated.