Metro

How Imo Monarch, Cop Suspected Killers Were Arrested — Police

Published

2 years ago

December 3, 2023

The Imo State Police Command has given an account of how its men arrested suspected Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network members who allegedly killed a traditional ruler in Ezinihitte Mbaise, a party ward chairman, DPO Ahiazu Mbaise and an Inspector of Police in the state.

Speaking during the parade and exhibits recovery on Saturday, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, said the suspects had terrorised the Mbaise axis and bridged the peace of “Ndi Imo”.

Danjuma stressed that the atrocities perpetrated by these suspects prompted him to convene a crucial meeting with Inter-Agency Security chiefs in the state aimed at rolling out collaborative operational strategies that will assist in bringing the assailants to book, adding, “I directed the Command’s Special Tactical Squad to go all out in synergy with other sister security agencies and hunt down the hoodlums responsible for the attacks.

“Imo State Police Command, under my leadership, has continued to intensify its effort to provide maximum safety and security for ‘Ndi Imo’ as the State has been relatively peaceful.

So This Happened (221) Reviews Recent Naira Fall, Tuition…
“However, last week the Command was faced with some security challenges particularly at the Mbaise axis, by IPOB/ESN Terrorists leading to the death of a Traditional ruler in Ezinihitte Mbaise, a party ward chairman.”

Reeling out the results of the operation, the Imo CP declared that a total of 25 male suspects were arrested for various criminal cases ranging from IPOB/ESN terrorism activities, armed robbery, murder, stealing/receiving stolen properties, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

“These are suspects that are evidentially linked to the respective case against them. While other miscreants were neutralised in a fierce gun battle that ensued between them and the police.

“In the course of investigating the aforesaid cases, a total number of 20 Assault Rifles, including 5 AK 47 rifles, 6 Pump Action guns, 9 locally made pistols, one Barrera pistol and a total of 359 rounds of various calibres of ammunition, were recovered from them. Also recovered from these suspects include six vehicles, including a black Toyota Venza Car that was used in attacking DPO Ahiazu Mbaise, (3) Motorcycles, Charms, IPOB/ESN vest/insignia, Military camouflage, Biafra Currency, police vests, and other incriminating items.

He further gave an insight into the cases associated with the suspects paraded as follows;

“Following the murder of DPO Ahiazu Mbaise and an Inspector of Police on 27/11/2023, at Ahiara junction in Ahiazu Mbaise by disgruntled elements suspected to be members IPOB/ESN and the subsequent confessions of suspects arrested at the scene by Police operatives in synergy with the Military, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping unit on 29/11/2023 stormed the camp of the criminal syndicate at Umuohie in Ngor Okpala LGA of Imo State, dislodged the terrorists, recovered two automatic pump action riffles and six rounds of life cartridges.

“The determined operatives continued their operation in search of the fleeing terrorists, storming Igbodo-Etche in Rivers State through a Technical Intelligence Tracking Device wherein a native doctor named Everest Agbaragam ‘m’, 62 yrs, of Umuoma, Igbodo, Etche Rivers State AKA Mount Everest was arrested. On searching his shrine one pump action gun loaded with 12 rounds of live cartridges, one big bag containing various denominations of Biafran currencies, one live crocodile, and fetish items were recovered.

“On interrogation, he confessed to being a member of IPOB/ESN. He stated that he usually prepares local bulletproof charms popular known as ‘Odeshi’ for his cohorts before they embark on any operation. He provided useful information to the gallant operatives in storming Umuogwu Forest in Aboh Mbaise LGA on 1/12/23.

The terrorists on sighting the Police, engaged them in a gun battle but were subdued by the combat-ready operatives who professionally maneuvered into vintage position and returned fire. In the ensuing gun duel, some of them were neutralized while others escaped into the tick forest with bullet wounds.

The terrorist camp was dislodged, and the following exhibits were recovered: 1. Five (5) AK-47 riffles, 2. Six (6) magazines containing two hundred and twenty (220) live ammunition, 3. Six (6) pump action guns, 4. One hundred and twenty-one (121) rounds of live cartridges, 5. One Revolver, 6. Four (4) locally made pistols, 7. Three Toyota Venza Cars, including the one they used in attacking the DPO, One Toyota Highlander SUV, and IEDs.

An intense manhunt is ongoing to track down other fleeing suspects. They will be arraigned in court upon completion of a comprehensive investigation.

“Intelligence-led investigation and data tracking analysis by operatives of the Command’s Quick Intervention (QIT) Squad led to the arrest of two notorious armed robbery suspects namely; Isreal Ikoma, ‘m’ 40yrs, and Bright Chimezie ‘m’ 42yrs, involved in a case of stealing one Lexus 330 ES Jeep.

The suspects were nabbed on 28/11/2023 at Rumokoro in Rivers State in possession of the vehicles: “They have made confessional statements that will assist the determined Police operatives in arresting other members of their criminal syndicate at large. They will be arraigned in court upon completion of a Comprehensive Investigation.”

Continuing, he said, “In a related development, Operatives of the QIT squad in close synergy with Akokwa Vigilantes swiftly responded to an actionable intelligence received from a concerned citizen that IPOB/ESN members were sighted at Orie Akokwa market moving in a motorcycle and tactically mobilised to the scene. On sighting the operative the hoodlums engaged them in a gun duel by were overwhelmed by the stiff resistance and professionalism of the determined operatives, forcing them to flee with various degrees of gunshot injuries. On combing the scene the following items were recovered, 1. Red Qlink Motorcycle, 2. A bag containing 40 pieces of T-shirt, 3. 49 Hand Gloves/face mask, 4. Six Ankle Protector, 5. Four Expanded Rocket Launcher Ammunition, 6. Mopol Uniform, 7. Ammunitions, and 8. Charms.

“An intense follow-up to a distress call received from a concerned citizen that armed robbers numbering about five, operating with unmarked motorcycles were robbing the shop of Ugorji Chimeeucheya ‘m’ along BSC road Orlu, operatives of Orlu Divisional Headquarters swiftly mobilized to the scene engaged the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel. In the process, one of the hoodlums was neutralized while others escaped with various degrees of gunshot injuries. On searching the suspect and the scene, one unregistered KDH King Motorcycle, one cut-to-size double barrel gun, and three live cartridges were recovered. The lifeless body of the neutralized hoodlum was recovered and deposited at IMSUTH Mortuary, Orlu. Efforts are on top gear to arrest the fleeing suspects and make them face the full wrath of the law.

“On 25/11/2023 at about 21000hrs, Operatives of Anti-Kidnapping Unit Owerri while on surveillance patrol within Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State, through credible information arrested two suspects namely; Obinna Emenue 35 yrs ‘m’ of Duruaku and Obinwanne Umuaka in Njaba L.G.A. of Imo State and one Berretta pistol with three rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the suspect. He confessed to being a member of the Armed Robbery gang terrorizing Njaba and Isu Local Government Areas and stated that he was going to meet his gang members for them to embark on Armed Robbery operations that night. The suspects also mentioned his gang members at large. Meanwhile, intense investigation is ongoing for the arrest of his fleeing gang members and the recovery of their arms.

“On 5/10/2023 at about 2020hrs, Operatives of Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Imo State Command, Owerri while on routine patrol received a distress call from residents of Aladinma Housing Estate, Owerri about the armed robbery activities that had been recurrence attack within the area. On receipt of the distress call, operatives of the Anti-kidnapping unit swiftly swung into action, and navigated to the area, hoodlums on sighting the operatives took to their heels and one of the armed robbery gang members Chinonso Obieshi was arrested, one locally made pistol, and two lives cartridges was recovered from the hoodlum. The suspect confessed to being among the armed robbery gang terrorizing Aladinma and Owerri Municipal Council. Meanwhile, the investigation is ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.

“On 19/11/2023 at about 0730hrs, the family of Nnadi, Amaechi, and Nwadike in Umuayalu, Egbu in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State were having a meeting to discuss their family problem emanating from ancestral land disputes. In the process, parties in the meeting argued among themselves which escalated and the suspect Ugonna Nnadi disrupted the meeting, harassed and assaulted the family elders which made the situation tense. The suspect Ugonna Nnadi rushed into his house, brought out a Chief Revolver pistol loaded with live ammunition, and fired which caused commotion, tension, and fear.

“On receipt of the information, Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, swiftly swung into action, gathered intelligence, and arrested the said Ugonna Nnadi. The Chief Revolver pistol with five rounds of live ammunition and one expended shell was recovered from him. The suspect confessed to being a member of the dreaded cult group and stated that he intended to kill the complainant, Chimdi Nnadi. Meanwhile, the investigation is ongoing.

“Acting of credible intelligence that hoodlums who specialized in POS fraud are in operation at Umukoto Umudibia, Nekede. Operatives of Nekede Divisional Headquarters, in synergy with the local vigilantes, mobilised to the scene. On sighting the police, the hoodlums took to their heels but were given a hot chase by the determined operatives, during which Ifeanyi Anyasodor ‘m’, 23, AKA Eluigwe, was eventually arrested while Dikachi ‘m’ and other suspects escaped. On searching the suspect, One Baibox, and a suspected stolen POS machine were recovered. On interrogation, he confessed to crime and membership of the Vikings confraternity. Efforts are on top gear to arrest his cohort and bring them to book,” he narrated.

He, however, appreciated state governor, Hope Uzodimma for his support and fight against crime as well as the officers who carried out the operation with the help of sister security agencies.
PUNCH

Metro

Man Arrested In Edo For Alleged Abduction Of 4-year-old

Published

2 hours ago

January 8, 2026

Editor

21-year-old ThankGod Destiny has been arrested by the Edo State Security Corps, ESSC, for allegedly kidnapping a four-year-old boy in the state.

Deputy Corps Commander, Operations, of the ESSC, Richard Balogun, who disclosed this to newsmen in Benin on Thursday, said the suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

Balogun, while disclosing that the incident happened on January 4, 2026 at Ikpoba Hill, Benin, said the arrest of the suspect followed an alarm raised by a commercial bus driver and a female passenger.

The ESSC commander said, “On January 4, 2026, a woman went out with her son at lkpoba Hill in Benin city. A few minutes later, the son disappeared from her sight.
This suspect identified as ThankGod Destiny had allegedly kidnapped the four-year-old boy.

“The little boy was hurriedly taken into a commercial bus going towards kings Square in Benin city.

“The driver of the bus who noticed a great difference in resemblance between the little boy and the man, however questioned where he was heading with the little boy.

“He lied that the boy is ill and he is taking him to the hospital. But later on, a female passenger asked him about his destination with the boy. He replied that he was going to buy the boy shoe.

“The various replies made the driver and the woman raise the alarm. The alarm attracted men of the Edo State Security Corps who were on patrol. The suspect was immediately arrested and the kidnapped little boy rescued unhurt.”

Balogun, who said the victim has been reunited with his family, assured that the Corps will continue to hunt for criminals in the state.

Metro

Imo Police Arrest Man Accused Of Defilement In Viral Video

Published

2 hours ago

January 8, 2026

Editor

Imo State Police Command has arrested one 24-year-old man, Wisdom Onyeaju, from Umuekweye, Irete, Owerri-West Local Government Area, in connection with an alleged case of defilement.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, made this known in a statement on Thursday.

DSP Henry said the arrest followed credible information received by the Command from the family of the victim, who had earlier drawn public attention to the incident through a viral video circulating on social media.

According to Henry, the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing thorough investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID.

The police mouthpiece further said that the suspect would be arraigned in court with the appropriate charges upon the conclusion of investigation.

DSP Henry also disclosed that the Command has also identified and detained the police officers alleged to have been involved in professional misconduct in the course of handling the case.

“An orderly room trial has been scheduled to commence on Monday, 12th January, 2026, to address the misconduct in line with extant police regulations.

“We remain committed to professionalism, transparency, and accountability. Justice will be served in this matter,” the Command assured.

Metro

Edo widow-lawyer Diabolically Blinded Over Contract Seeks Okpebholo’s Intervention

Published

21 hours ago

January 7, 2026

Editor

…says efforts to meet gov blocked

A blind-widow and mother of four, Barr. Benny Francis, has appealed to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State to intervene over what she described as injustice meted on her and her children.

She lamented that after her husband, who was the breadwinner of the family, was knocked down by a bus chased by the then Kelly Okungbowa aka Ebo-Stone-led Edo State Task Force, all her efforts to meet with the governor had proved abortive.

“When the governor heard about the incident, we were told he asked “where is the family of the man?” The governor is actually interested in the case but we are being blocked from gaining access. I have met with the Coordinator of the First Lady, and she was trying to arrange for our meeting with the governor, but in one of my visits to the Office to the Office of the First Lady, I met Ebo-Stone in the office, so I waited at the reception. To my own surprise, the Coordinator didn’t meet with me that day despite the fact that she was the one that asked me to come. Till this moment, no attempt from that end. This is what happens to any highly placed political office holders I met regarding my ordeal. They may attend to me and listen to me initially, but once I meet them with Ebo-Stone, their doors become completely shut against me. I don’t know what they are hiding,” she narrated.

Narrating how her tragic and pathetic story started on Wednesday, she said, until the tragic incident that happened to her that led to her losing her sight, “she was a contractor with the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) and was awarded a contract to construct a 10-unit staff quarters in Ughoton Community, Edo State.”

She added that “during the execution of this project, I was diabolically attacked and rendered blind,” stressing that “following this unfortunate incident, EDSOGPADEC assured me that they would compensate me for all my losses, settle my medical bills, and support my recovery. Unfortunately, these promises were never fulfilled.

“The former Secretary to the State Government (Barr. Osarodion Ogie) directed them to provide me with a Prado Jeep and a hilux to assist with my mobility, but after the car was delivered, the former Oil and Gas Chairman ordered its retrieval within 24 hours under the pretext of repairs. Till date, the vehicle has not been returned.

“In pursuit of justice, I took the matter to court, where I initially demanded N1 billion in damages. The government pleaded for a settlement of N300 million, but after court deliberations, it was agreed that I would receive N500 million in compensation. Despite this legal resolution, only N50 million was offered, which I was advised to reject due to the lack of a conclusive agreement. Since then, the government has failed to fulfill their promises, including offering me new contracts as earlier pledged.

“As a result of this ordeal, I lost all my properties, including my home, cars, and valuables to the bank, as I had taken loans to finance the EDSOGPADEC project. My financial situation has deteriorated drastically, leaving me struggling to survive.”

She lamented that “as if my suffering was not enough, tragedy struck again on December 11, 2024. My husband, who had been my only pillar of support, was tragically killed in an accident caused by the Edo State Task Force under the current administration.

“He was struck by a bus driver being pursued by the Task Force, led by a man known as “Able Stone”, and the vehicle crushed his head. He was rushed to the Edo Specialist Hospital and later referred to UBTH, where he sadly passed away by 5:00 PM that same day.

“I lost my husband when I was five months pregnant and left to care for four young children, now as a widow, with no means of support. I have made several attempts to meet with His Excellency, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, to personally narrate my plight, but all efforts have been unsuccessful.”

The widow, who debunked Ebo-Stone’s claim that he has compensated her and the children, appealed to the governor to “as a father and a man of compassion, to intervene in my case. I seek the support of the Edo State Government.”

Contacted, Ebo-Stone picked the phone call but hurriedly said “I am in a party,” and ended the call immediately he heard journalist. The SMS sent to his telephone as a follow-up was not responded to as at when filing the report.