The Imo State Police Command has successfully uncovered several criminal hideouts during a recent operation, leading to the arrest of nine suspects and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles along with other dangerous weapons.
According to DSP Henry Okoye, the command's spokesperson, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across Imo State. The operation was primarily conducted by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit who acted on credible intelligence to launch coordinated attacks against notorious criminal elements in various local government areas.
Major Arrest in Ahiazu Mbaise
On May 31, 2025, police operatives raided Eke Eziama in Ahiazu Mbaise LGA, where they encountered 34-year-old John Bosco Onuocha, a native of Ihiteaforukwu. Onuocha and his associates reportedly opened fire on the police team, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. During the confrontation, Onuocha sustained a leg injury before being apprehended, while his accomplices escaped into nearby bushes.
Investigations have linked Onuocha to multiple violent attacks that claimed the lives of security personnel and traditional leaders in the Mbaise area. Items recovered at the scene included one General Purpose Machine Gun, two chain magazines loaded with 200 rounds of live ammunition, one AK-47 rifle without a breach number, 56 rounds of live ammunition, and four magazines.
The suspect has reportedly confessed to playing a significant role in numerous terrorist attacks across the state and revealed that the automatic rifles were supplied by a notorious gang commander known as B44 to reactivate their criminal operations. Okoye confirmed that Onuocha has been taken to a medical facility in Owerri for treatment.
Additional Arrests in Njaba
In a separate operation in Njaba, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit apprehended three suspected members of another criminal group. The suspects were identified as Ozioma Ihedoro (aka Mazi Oz), Uchenna Opara (aka Nta-Nta Mmiri), and Amaefule Emeka (aka Odopu).
During interrogation, Emeka confessed to being involved in the 2021 attack on the Federal Correctional Centre. Items recovered from these suspects include one AK-47 rifle, two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, and various criminal charms.
Following confessions from these suspects, five additional accomplices were arrested in Njaba LGA. They were identified as Ugwuegbu Cynthia, Ikewgbado Kennedy, Amaefule Chukwuamare Emmanuel, Eke Anayo, and Eke Chukwudi.
Police Commitment to Security
DSP Okoye emphasized that these operations underscore the command's commitment to enhancing peace and security and dismantling criminal networks in Imo State. He urged residents to continue supporting ongoing security efforts by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the Command's emergency line, 0803 477 3600.
The successful operations represent significant progress in the state's fight against armed criminal groups that have been terrorizing communities across Imo State.
