The Imo State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminal networks, leading to the arrest of 75 suspects linked to a series of high-profile offenses, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and murder. The breakthrough was announced by the State Police Commissioner, Audu Garba Bosso, during a press briefing at the Command’s Headquarters in Owerri, where a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and stolen property was also displayed.
The Commissioner highlighted that these successes are the result of a month-long, intelligence-driven operation carried out in close coordination with other security agencies and community stakeholders. Commissioner Bosso noted that the synergy between the police and the public has led to a noticeable decline in the crime rate across the state, creating a more secure environment for both residents and visitors.
Among the items recovered during these raids were three AK-47 rifles, multiple magazines, 65 rounds of live ammunition, several locally made pistols, and six stolen motorcycles. A particularly significant development involved the neutralization of a suspected terrorist during a fierce encounter, alongside the recovery of additional weaponry that had been used to terrorize local communities.
The Commissioner detailed a specific incident on March 3, when the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit responded to a distress call from the Chief Security Officer of Adapalm in the Ohaji/Egbema local government area. Armed hoodlums had reportedly invaded the facility and set heavy machinery on fire. Upon the arrival of security personnel, a gun duel ensued, resulting in one suspect sustaining fatal injuries.
In a separate but related encounter on March 14, the suspects resurfaced while officers were on surveillance patrol. After another intense exchange of gunfire, the criminals were overpowered and forced to flee with gunshot wounds, abandoning three loaded AK-47 rifles in the process. Security operatives have since intensified their search in the area to track down the fleeing suspects.
A major milestone was also recorded in Orsu Local Government Area, where a joint task force comprising police and military personnel overran a notorious camp known as “Mother Valley.” During the fierce battle to reclaim the area, two terrorists were neutralized. The operation led to the recovery of over 300 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), including rigged gas cylinders and galvanized pipes, as well as five exotic vehicles.
Concluding the briefing, Commissioner Bosso urged the people of Imo State to remain vigilant and continue providing the police with timely and credible information. He also took the moment to reassure the public that comprehensive security measures have been established to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebration across the state.
