…Fingers IPOB/ESN
From Everest Ezihe, Owerri
As part of her security strategic plans to curtail criminal activities and ensure protection of lives and properties within the festive period and even beyond, Imo State Police Command says her Anti-Kidnapping Unit have successfully dismantled a notorious IPOB/ESN syndicate involved in kidnapping and armed robbery.
It’s pertinent to recall that, in the recent past, the Nigeria Government had declared a number of persons in connection with IPOB freedom fighting activities wanted including Simon Ekpa, Mazi Kelechi Peter, Edoziem Chika, and Nwaka Ebuka, equally for their alleged role in terrorism and other violent crimes in the South East region of the country.
However, Simon Ekpa a top notcher of IPOB and, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian origin was recently arrested in Finland on suspicion of terrorism-related activities, including incitement to violence and financing terrorism in Nigeria.
The Nigerian authority has vowed not to relent in it’s effort to curtail IPOB/ESN activities and their sponsors.
The Command further disclosed this in a press statement she issued and endorsed by ASP Henry Okoye , ANIPR, the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ( PPRO) and made available to news men in Owerri on Tuesday, including The Authority.
The statement reads,”Imo State Police Command On December 19, 2024, the police engaged the criminals in a gun battle in Orogwe, Owerri West Local Government Area. Three suspects were neutralized, and two others, David Ifeanyichukwu ‘m’ (20yrs) and Abuchi Joseph, ‘m’ (24yrs), were arrested. The gang had been involved in the abduction of Osuji Caleb Chimereze and three others on November 12, 2024, during which they stole a Mercedes Benz and other valuables.
“The police operation followed extensive investigation and intelligence gathering.
During the confrontation, the operatives recovered six AK-47 rifles with breach no; 11330, 12102, 3836, 8260, 9940, 113rounds of ammunition, a locally made gun, and two stolen vehicles: a Mercedes Benz ML 350 with reg no RRT 469 FF and a Hijet shuttle bus JRV 42 XA.
“The suspects had used these vehicles in their criminal activities, including the kidnapping of other victims” they informed.
Okoye lamented that two officers of the Command, were unfortunately injured during the exchange of fire and later succumbed to their injuries.
He pointed out that the Command mourns their loss and commends their dedication in the line of duty, further informing that efforts are now focused on capturing the remaining members of the syndicate who managed to escape during the operation.
The PPRO also informed that In light of the ongoing festive season, the Imo State Police Command under the leadership of CP Aboki Danjuma is intensifying patrols and security operations in synergy with other security agencies, to ensure a hitch-free Christmas and New Year festive season.
He enjoined members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via 0803 477 3600, as the Command continues their fight against crime and work to ensure the safety of all residents.
