A suspected armed robber has been arrested in Owerri, with police recovering weapons and stolen valuables in what authorities describe as a targeted operation against criminal activity in Imo State.
The suspect, identified as Chigaemezu Aguguom, was apprehended by operatives of the Orji Police Division working alongside the Anti-Narcotics Unit after acting on credible intelligence.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said the arrest took place during a routine patrol near the Bishop’s Court axis, close to Pacific Hotel in Owerri. The suspect was found with gunshot wounds, believed to have been sustained during a failed robbery attempt.
Under interrogation, Aguguom reportedly confessed to being part of a five-man armed robbery gang operating within the area, raising concerns about ongoing criminal networks in the city.
The police say the suspect has already provided valuable information that is helping efforts to track down other members of the syndicate who are currently on the run.
Items recovered from him include two locally made firearms loaded with five live cartridges, four mobile phones, a wristwatch, and other valuables suspected to have been stolen from victims.
Authorities confirmed that both the suspect and the recovered exhibits have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Owerri for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Garba Bosso, reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining security, particularly during the Easter period.
He also called on residents to remain vigilant and support law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities through designated emergency lines or at the nearest police station.
