The Imo State Police Command has made significant strides in its fight against crime with the recent arrests of two suspected armed robbers and one cultist. The suspects, Ntosi Godfrey, 37, and Nnamdi Raymond, were reportedly operating between the Umuahia and Owerri areas. Additionally, Chibueze Kalu, 25, was apprehended for his alleged involvement with a notorious cult group.

The arrests were announced at the Command Headquarters in Owerri, where ASP Henry Okoye, the Command’s spokesperson, provided details of the operations. The Tactical Unit of the police arrested the armed robbery suspects during a stop-and-search operation along Owerri-Aba road. The suspects were in a green Toyota Golf with registration number AA775BD Lagos, a car they allegedly stole from a victim in Umuahia.

When the police approached, the suspects opened fire. However, the officers managed to defend themselves and returned fire. One of the suspects sustained injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital, while the other was arrested on the spot. During the search, the police recovered a pump action gun, a locally made gun, and 10 rounds of live cartridges. The suspects admitted to being part of a dangerous armed robbery group in Umuahia and mentioned another suspect who is still at large.

In a separate operation, the Nekede Divisional Headquarters Owerri West LGA, in collaboration with local vigilantes, arrested Chibueze Kalu on July 18, 2024. Kalu is suspected of being a member of the Black Axe Confraternity, a known cult group. The police recovered a locally made pistol from him, and he confessed to being part of the cult group.

These arrests underscore the Imo State Police Command’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents. The police continue to urge the public to provide any information that could assist in the fight against criminal activities in the state.