The police operation, led by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, was launched following a report of the kidnapping. Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, immediately deployed all available resources to locate the suspects. Based on gathered intelligence, the police identified the gang’s hideout in a forest near Avu. A raid on the location led to the arrest of five suspects: Umaru Usman (40), Tukur Yau (25), Musbau Sabo (18), Abdul Ibrahim (30), and Jubrin Idris (35). The suspects, all from northern states, were found with a pump-action gun, cartridges, daggers, a cutlass, and criminal charms.

Further investigations revealed that this syndicate had been responsible for multiple kidnappings in Obinze, Avu, and surrounding areas. The police are continuing efforts to apprehend other members of the gang.

In a separate incident, the police arrested Nwauba Alex (25) during a routine patrol in Owerri. Alex was caught robbing two residents at gunpoint near Aladinma Primary School. The police recovered a locally made pistol, ammunition, and a torchlight from the suspect. He later confessed to the crime, revealing that he bought the gun from a dealer in Ebonyi State. The police are now working to trace and arrest the gun manufacturers.

CP Aboki Danjuma commended the officers for their bravery and urged them to maintain their efforts in reducing crime across the state. He also emphasized the importance of public cooperation in helping the police make Imo State safer.