In its intensified efforts to combat criminal activity in the state, the Imo State Police Command has apprehended 25 individuals in a variety of crimes and seized weapons and illegal narcotics.
In a news release, Henry Okoye, the Command’s spokesperson, reported that 25 individuals had been taken into custody for crimes that included drug sales, child trafficking, cultism, armed robbery, and kidnapping.
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During investigations, Okoye disclosed, officers found 35 bags of suspected cannabis sativa weeds, two cars, three motorcycles, four assault guns, and 25 cartridges.
Incriminating exhibits and alleged stolen aluminum roofing sheets are among the other items found.
Among those detained, suspected gang members who are intimidating Njaba LGA are prominent. Along with three other people, the suspects are Eririogu Chukwuebuka, 28, who is from Egwuede Atta, Njaba LGA; Ezemonye Orji, 32, who is from Edda, Afikpo, Ebonyi State; and Kelechi Michael, 28.
The individuals are accused of kidnapping, armed robbery, and the 2021 murders of HRH Eze Durueburuo of Okwudo Autonomous Community and HRH Eze Sampson Osunwa, the traditional ruler of Ihebinowere Autonomous Community, both in Njaba LGA.
According to the statement, “one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, thirty rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun, seven cartridges, and criminal charms were recovered from them.”
The Police Spokesperson further stated that in another development, Command agents stopped an ash-colored Ford J5 bus at Nkweshi, Oguta LGA, based on reliable information, and detained two suspected drug dealers who were transporting a sizable shipment of illegal substances to suspected criminal networks in Eziorsu within the LGA.
Additionally, he disclosed that around 1,200 kg of illegal substances including probable cannabis sativa herb were found.
In a same vein, agents detained Ezeh Chinonso Ugochukwu, M, 31, a known criminal ganag commander on the Command’s wanted list, along the border between Nnebukwu and Orsu Obodo in Oguta LGA after acting on reliable intelligence. His confession resulted in the dismantling of a camp in Orsu Obodo that was thought to be owned by ESN. Twenty-two (22) rounds of live ammo, one AK-47 rifle, one LAR rifle, and one pump-action gun were found.
The suspect reportedly acknowledged that his syndicate had killed a preacher and a young woman who was pregnant, among other innocent victims.
According to the announcement, “all suspects and exhibits are currently in custody for a thorough investigation and will be charged to court accordingly in line with the rule of law.”
The newly promoted Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, assured the people of the State of the Command’s unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks and maintaining public safety, Okoye disclosed.
Using the platform, he also urged citizens to report suspicious activity by calling 0803 477 3600. This will help the police and other security agencies with proactive policing by providing fast and actionable information.