The Imo State Police Command has announced the arrest of 147 criminal suspects involved in various crimes including armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, rape, and child trafficking across the state.

According to a statement released by the Command's spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, the police also recovered several weapons during the operations, including 7 AK-47 rifles, 3 AK-47 magazines, 7 pump-action guns, 7 locally fabricated long guns, and 178 live cartridges, among other items.

The successful operations were the result of intensified efforts over the past two months to enhance peace and security in Imo State through a series of well-coordinated operations executed under the strategic leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma.

DSP Okoye revealed that five armed robbery suspects were neutralized during fierce gun battles with police operatives, and seven kidnapped victims were successfully rescued during the operations.

In one of the major breakthroughs, operatives arrested a 37-year-old man, Ozioma Ihedoro, in Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area. Ihedoro, described as a native doctor who had been on the Command's wanted list, reportedly admitted to being the spiritual adviser to an alleged IPOB commander known as "B44." A search of his shrine led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and seven live rounds.

Additionally, the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, working with operatives from Njaba Division, arrested three armed robbery suspects: 21-year-old Chinonso Anayo (aka Pablo), 20-year-old Emmanuel John, and 20-year-old Ifeanyi John, all from Isiagu, Ebonyi State. The suspects were apprehended during a surveillance operation and have reportedly confessed to involvement in multiple robberies. One Q-Link motorcycle, two pump-action guns, and fifteen live cartridges were recovered from them.

Commending the operatives for their resilience, CP Aboki Danjuma reiterated the Command's commitment, alongside other security agencies, to safeguarding lives and property in Imo State. He noted that security measures have been strengthened across the state to eliminate kidnapping and violent crimes.

The Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the emergency line: 0803 477 3600.