Operatives of the Imo State Police Command, led by the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, on Monday stormed an area in Irete, Owerri West Local Council, suspected to be the den of bandits where they keep their victims. Four suspected kidnappers were promptly arrested.
In a statement issued at about 7 p.m. by the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), some arms were recovered in the vicinity.
Okoye disclosed that the arrests were made following credible intelligence reports and a series of complaints by the residents of the area concerning incessant attacks, abductions, and other violent crimes by unknown gunmen.
He gave the names, ages and states of origin of the suspects as Sulieman Ahmed, 26; Mohammed Salisu, 31; Gambo Jefta, 26; all from Jigawa State, and Gabriel Ogbuzuru from Ebonyi State.
The statement read: “Sequel to a series of complaints of kidnapping in Irete and other communities in Owerri West LGA, operatives of the Imo State Police Command on 2nd March 2025 conducted a well-coordinated operation at a forest in Irete, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers. 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.
“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives stormed a forest hideout in Irete, apprehending four suspects: Sulieman Ahmed (26), Mohammed Salisu (31), and Gambo Jefta (26), all from Jigawa State, and Gabriel Ogbuzuru from Ebonyi State. Upon searching the suspects and their hideout, three fabricated shotguns with six rounds of live cartridges and three machetes were recovered.
“The suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution. Following this achievement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, led further combing operations on 3rd March 2025 to apprehend additional fleeing suspects.
“CP Aboki Danjuma has also intensified security measures, including confidence-building patrols and collaboration with local vigilantes, to enhance peace and security in the region. He assures the public of the command’s commitment to dismantling all criminal networks and maintaining a safer Imo State.
“The Imo State Police Command calls on the public to remain vigilant and law-abiding as security operations continue across the state. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency hotlines: 0803 477 3600, 0814 802 4755. Together, we can build a safer and prosperous Imo State.”
