The Imo State Police Command said it has dismantled a notorious kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate at Orogwe, Owerri West Local Government Area of the state.
The Command’s Spokesman, Henry Okoye, confirmed this in a statement on Tuesday, adding that three suspects were neutralised.
The Police Public Relations Officer said two others: David Ifeanyichukwu, 20, and Abuchi Joseph, 24, were arrested.
Okoye, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, said the operatives of the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit undertook extensive investigation and intelligence gathering to execute the operation.
He said: “On December 19, 2024, the police engaged the criminals in a gun battle in Orogwe, Owerri West Local Government Area.
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“The gang had been involved in the abduction of Osuji Chimereze and three others on November 12, 2024, during which they stole a Mercedes Benz and other valuables.”
The PPRO said during the confrontation, the operatives recovered six AK-47 rifles with breach numbers: 11330, 12102, 3836, 8260, and 9940.
Okoye added that 113 rounds of ammunition, a locally made gun, and two stolen vehicles: a Mercedes Benz ML 350 with registration number RRT 469 FF and a Hijet shuttle bus JRV 42 XA, were equally recovered.
He added: “The suspects had used these vehicles in their criminal activities, including the kidnapping of other victims.
“Unfortunately, two police officers were injured during the exchange of fire and later succumbed to their injuries.
“The Imo State Police Command mourns their loss and commends their dedication in the line of duty.”
Okoye stressed that efforts are now focused on capturing the remaining members of the syndicate, who managed to escape during the operation.
He assured residents that the command under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma was intensifying patrols and security operations in synergy with other security agencies to ensure a hitch-free yuletide.
The spokesman urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via 08034773600.
In another development, the command on Tuesday donated palliatives to families of 30 deceased officers in honour of their sacrifice and in the spirit of the Yuletide.
The command donated essential items such as bags of rice, a live cow, and monetary gifts.
CP Danjuma, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sirajo Fana, promised to prioritise the welfare of officers’ families.
Danjuma encouraged them to remain strong and resilient.
Gift Ubi, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed profound gratitude for the generous gesture.
Ubi noted that the gift was not only a material relief, but also an emotional comfort, especially during the Christmas period.
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