Police arrest 24 suspects after raiding criminal hideouts in Imo forests
Imo State Police Arrest 24 Suspects in Owerri West
OWERRI, Imo State — The Imo State Police Command arrested 24 individuals in a series of operations across various wooded areas in Owerri West Local Government Area, responding to rising concerns over alleged kidnapping and violent incidents.
The operation, coordinated by the Owerri Urban Division under Area Commander Michael Abatam, involved collaboration with local vigilante groups. Police spokesperson Henry Okoye stated that the initiative aimed to strengthen security measures as directed by Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso.
More than 250 police and vigilante personnel participated in a comprehensive search of the forests in Eziobodo, Ihiagwa, Nekede, and Okomochi communities. The goal was to dismantle suspected criminal hideouts and restore safety in the area.
During the operation, authorities apprehended 24 suspects at various locations within the forests. Among those detained were individuals aged between 20 and 40, including Jonah Abotu, Abel John, Ibrahim Ubande, Peter Samuel, and Kabiru Yahaya.
Police recovered several items during the operation, including marijuana, over six unregistered motorcycles, and other items deemed incriminating.
The suspects have been transferred to the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit for thorough investigation and potential prosecution.
In response to the arrests, Commissioner Bosso described the operation as a success and reaffirmed the police’s dedication to combating criminal activities statewide. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to local authorities or through the command’s emergency lines at 0803 477 3600 or 09116606669.
The Commissioner assured the public that such operations will continue until all criminal elements are effectively eradicated from the region.
