Police nab 699 suspects over alleged self-kidnapping, firearms, others in Ebonyi
Ebonyi State Police Arrest 699 Suspects in Six-Month Anti-Crime Operation
Abakaliki, Nigeria — The Ebonyi State Police Command has announced the arrest of 699 suspects, including 660 males and 39 females, as part of a crackdown on crime. This operation was conducted from April to September 2026, in response to 372 reported cases.
At a press briefing on Thursday at the Command’s headquarters, Commissioner of Police Hope Urunwa Okafor detailed that 309 of the arrested suspects have been charged in connection with 162 cases, with investigations into the remaining cases still ongoing.
During the operation, police recovered 31 assorted firearms, 33 rounds of ammunition, and three vehicles.
On June 2, police operatives on routine patrol near Hausa Quarters Flyover arrested Uzor Ifeanyi after discovering a suspicious bag, which contained a locally made pistol. He has since been charged to court.
Subsequent operations on June 11 targeted hoodlum activities in Onueke, resulting in the arrests of five individuals identified as Ngwuata Henry Chikaodili, Utobo Maduabuchi Fabian, Chukwuebuka Nwokpu, Ogba Okwudili, and Eze Uba Kenneth. Police recovered two pump-action guns, a locally made single-barrel gun, machetes, live cartridges, and illicit drugs from the suspects, who have also been charged.
Another significant operation occurred on July 6, when police raided a suspected firearms storage site in Ishielu Local Government Area. This operation led to the seizure of an AK-47 rifle and a Beretta pistol.
In a separate incident, following information gathered about Ishali Onuabuchi’s illegal possession of firearms, police arrested him at his residence. He subsequently led officers to Ekenedirichukwu Oge’s home, where more weapons were found. Ongoing investigations are expected to identify additional suspects linked to this case.
On August 1, police raided a suspected hideout in Nkomoro Community, recovering an ash-colored Honda Accord. Inside the vehicle, officers found 19 voter cards and two mobile phones, prompting further investigation into the ownership and significance of these items.
A notable case on August 10 involved Ajah Ikechukwu, who allegedly staged his own kidnapping and extorted his family for N25 million. After the police’s thorough investigation, he was apprehended, admitting to his role in the scheme.
In another incident on August 16, a police officer reported an attack by three armed men. One suspect named Stephen Job was later arrested, and police seized multiple firearms and other evidence from his home. The search efforts continue for the remaining suspects.
Additionally, the police announced arrests related to the murder of His Royal Highness Josephat Ikegwu, the Traditional Ruler of Ishinkwo Autonomous Community. Two additional suspects were apprehended on August 28 after extensive intelligence operations.
CP Okafor also addressed a recent case of cyberbullying and extortion involving Okechukwu Emmanuel, who allegedly threatened to publish intimate videos of his ex-girlfriend. Following investigation, he was arrested and will face charges.
Regarding the upcoming 2027 general elections, CP Okafor assured the public that the Command is prepared to maintain order and security. She emphasized the importance of peaceful conduct by political actors and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to impartiality and professionalism.
The Commissioner urged all involved in the electoral process to help ensure a peaceful and orderly campaign environment. She reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property while tackling emerging security challenges throughout the state.
