Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have arrested 24 suspects during large-scale security raids across forested communities in Owerri West Local Government Area as authorities intensify efforts to tackle kidnapping and violent crime.
The coordinated operation covered Eziobodo, Ihiagwa, Nekede and Okolochi communities, areas that have witnessed growing security concerns in recent weeks.
Police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye confirmed the development on Monday, stating that the operation was led by the Area Commander, Owerri Urban, ACP Michael Abattam.
According to him, more than 250 police officers and local vigilante operatives were deployed to comb suspected criminal hideouts and black spots within the affected communities.
Among those arrested were suspects identified as Jonah Abotu, 21; Abel John, 22; Ibrahim Ubande, 40; Peter Samuel, 28; Kabiru Yahaya, 20; and Yahaya Adamu, 22.
Police said exhibits recovered during the operation included substances suspected to be cannabis sativa, over six unregistered motorcycles and other incriminating items.
“All the suspects have been transferred to the command’s Violent Crime Response Unit for further investigation and possible prosecution,” Okoye stated.
He explained that the raids formed part of proactive security directives issued by the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Bosso, following reports of increasing kidnappings and violent attacks in parts of Owerri West.
“The operation targeted suspected criminal hideouts and black spots within the forested areas with the aim of completely eradicating criminal activities and restoring public confidence in the affected communities,” Okoye said.
The police command also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal networks operating across the state.
Residents were urged to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or activities through the nearest police station or the command’s emergency lines.
The latest security operation comes amid rising tension in Eziobodo and surrounding communities, where residents have repeatedly raised alarm over attacks and kidnappings allegedly linked to armed herders.
Only weeks ago, residents of Eziobodo, the host community of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), staged a peaceful protest demanding stronger security action.
The protest followed the killing of a resident, Chimuanya Eke, who was reportedly shot by suspected herders while trying to buy medication for his child.
He later died at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Owerri, leaving behind his wife and five children.
