By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
19- SEPT -2025

The Imo State Police Command has restated its determination to stamp out criminal activities across the state, as the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, unveiled major breakthroughs in recent operations.

Addressing journalists in Owerri, CP Danjuma said the Command, in collaboration with sister security agencies and community stakeholders, had between July and mid-September 2025 carried out decisive raids and intelligence-led operations that crippled criminal networks. These efforts culminated in the arrest of 789 suspects linked to heinous crimes ranging from kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, terrorism, child trafficking, and murder.

According to him, nine kidnapped victims and seven stolen children were rescued and successfully reunited with their families. The operations also yielded the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, locally made weapons, 72 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 673 live cartridges, nine stolen motorcycles, IEDs, hard drugs, counterfeit notes, and Biafran currencies.

One of the most notable achievements was the dismantling of IPOB/ESN terrorist cells in parts of Okigwe, Mbaitoli, and Njaba LGAs, leading to the arrest of several key figures. On September 16, 2025, operatives stormed a camp at Obudi Agwa in Oguta LGA, where a fierce exchange of gunfire ended in the capture of 16 suspected terrorists, including sub-commanders Uzoechi Okechukwu and Paschal Igbuogwu. Weapons and other incriminating materials were recovered.

Earlier on September 9, 2025, a notorious terrorist kingpin, Onye Chukwuebuka Eriiriogu, was apprehended in Ogbaku, Mbaitoli LGA. He confessed to leading violent attacks carried out by his gang across Imo State.

The Police Command also scored a major success against human trafficking. Officers of the Anti-Vice Unit uncovered a disturbing case where a one-month-old baby, deceitfully declared dead at birth, was rescued and returned to her mother, Precious Ochasi of Ohuba, Ohaji. Investigations revealed a conspiracy involving a self-acclaimed pastor, a nurse, and an agent identified as Chioma, who plotted to sell the child for ₦900,000. Four suspects are in custody, while others remain on the run.

In another operation, four suspected cultists linked to the Vikings Confraternity were arrested in Amaraku, Isiala Mbano LGA. Locally fabricated pistols and cartridges were seized, and investigations continue to track their accomplices.

CP Danjuma commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for his unwavering support in logistics and personnel welfare, as well as the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for providing leadership and direction.

He reassured Ndi Imo of the Command’s steadfast commitment to protecting lives and property, declaring:
“Our mission is clear—we will not relent until Imo is completely free from crime and safe for all law-abiding citizens. These achievements mark only the beginning of our renewed fight for peace and security.”