Owerri – The Imo State Police Command has achieved a major breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on violent crime, arresting over 2,700 suspects and rescuing dozens of victims across the state in the past six months.
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A statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, revealed that under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, the Command has intensified operations targeting criminal syndicates linked to terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and child trafficking.
According to the release, a total of 2,785 suspects were arrested during the period, leading to the rescue of 58 kidnapped victims and 42 trafficked children, many of whom have been reunited with their families. The operations, spearheaded by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and supported by various tactical formations, also resulted in the recovery of a massive cache of arms and explosives.
Recovered items include:
2 General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG)
14 AK-47 rifles
20 pump-action shotguns
4 fabricated rocket launchers
7 gas-cylinder explosives
Locally made hand grenades
Assorted live ammunition and cartridges
Biafran flags and various criminal charms
Notorious IPOB/ESN Members Arrested
Four high-profile suspects—Amechi Onyebuchi (38), Ozioma Ihedoro (39), Cyprian Ikpegbunam (50), and Uchenna Opara (30)—believed to be members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN), were arrested during a raid on their camp in Njaba LGA.
The police said the raid was based on credible intelligence and led to the seizure of high-grade weapons and explosives. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to the kidnapping and murder of one Emmanuel Oguzie, allegedly carried out on the orders of a wanted ESN commander identified as Asari.
₦2.2M Ransom Paid Before Rescue
In another operation, the police arrested two suspected kidnappers—Uche Nwachukwu (24) and Chinonso Ozirim (32)—for abducting Anayo Iwuoha from his compound in Akabo on June 20, 2025. The suspects held the victim captive at Ozirim’s residence, collecting a ₦2.2 million ransom before a joint rescue operation involving local vigilantes led to their arrest and the safe release of the victim. A manhunt is ongoing for the gang’s remaining members.
Cult Leader Nabbed After Two-Year Manhunt
The Command also apprehended Wisdom Chinazaekpere Ogbonna (36) of Orlu LGA, a notorious member of the Vikings Confraternity, who had been on the run for two years. Ogbonna was wanted for the gruesome murder of a young man known as “Pikin,” whom he and others mistook for a rival cultist and allegedly butchered with knives.
Originally arrested for burglary and theft by operatives of the Orlu Division, Ogbonna’s criminal past came to light after profiling by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit. He is expected to be charged alongside others once investigations are completed.
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant
The Command expressed appreciation to members of the public for their ongoing support and credible tips, which have been instrumental in recent successes.
“Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or call 📞 0813 478 3532 or 0815 802 4755,” the statement read.
The Imo Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and pledged to continue its aggressive clampdown on criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the state.
