Policemen attached to the Imo State Police Command has apprehended four individuals in connection with kidnapping activities within a forest in Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area. The state police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.
According to Okoye, the arrests followed multiple reports of kidnapping incidents in the Owerri West area. Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives launched a tactical raid on Sunday, which led to the capture of the suspects and the recovery of weapons.
The arrested individuals were identified as Suleiman Ahmed (26), Mohammed Salisu (31), and Gambo Jefta (26), all from Jigawa State, alongside Gabriel Ogbuzuru from Ebonyi State. The police recovered three locally-made short guns, six rounds of live ammunition, and three machetes from the suspects.
The statement read: “Following increased reports of kidnapping in Irete and surrounding areas, the Imo State Police Command, on March 2, 2025, conducted a strategic operation in an Irete forest, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to combat the rising cases of abduction and violent crimes in the state.”
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He further stated that the suspects were currently in custody and would be prosecuted accordingly. Meanwhile, the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, personally led additional search operations on Monday to track down other members of the gang who managed to escape.
“The arrested suspects remain in police custody and will face due legal proceedings. To further clamp down on criminal elements, CP Aboki Danjuma led a follow-up combing operation on Monday to apprehend other fleeing suspects,” Okoye added.
In response to recent security concerns, the police command has intensified safety measures, including increased patrols and collaboration with local vigilante groups. Okoye assured residents that the police are committed to dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace across the state.
He urged the public to remain cautious and law-abiding while security operations continue, encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activities. He also provided emergency contact numbers—0803 477 3600 and 08148024755—for prompt security assistance.
“CP Aboki Danjuma has reinforced security measures, including confidence-building patrols and synergy with community vigilantes, to strengthen peace and safety in the region. The police command remains resolute in eradicating all forms of criminal activity to ensure a safer Imo State,” the statement concluded.
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