Police arrest ‘four kidnappers’, recover weapons in Imo

The Imo police command says its operatives have arrested four suspected kidnappers in Owerri west LGA of the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, Henry Okoye, the command’s spokesperson, identified the suspects as Sulieman Ahmed, Mohammed Salisu, Gambo Jefta and Gabriel Ogbuzuru.

He said the activities of the suspected kidnappers have increased reported cases of abduction in Owerri west LGA.

Okoye said the police recovered three fabricated short guns with six rounds of live cartridges, and three machetes from the suspects.

“Sequel to a series of complaints of kidnapping in Irete and other communities in Owerri west LGA, operatives of the Imo state police command on 2nd March, 2025 conducted a well-coordinated operation at a forest in Irete, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers,” the statement reads.

“This operation is part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements responsible for the recent surge in abductions and other violent crimes in the area.

“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives stormed a forest hideout in Irete, apprehending four suspects: Sulieman Ahmed (26), Mohammed Salisu (31), and Gambo Jefta (26), all from Jigawa State, and Gabriel Ogbuzuru from Ebonyi state.

“Upon searching the suspects and their hideout, three fabricated short guns with six rounds of live cartridges, and three machetes were recovered.

“The suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution.”

He said Aboki Danjuma, the commissioner of police, led a subsequent combing operation of the area on Monday.

“CP Aboki Danjuma has also intensified security measures, including confidence-building patrols and collaboration with local vigilantes, to enhance peace and security in the region,” Okoye said.

“He assures the public of the command’s commitment to dismantling all criminal networks and maintaining a safer Imo state.

“The Imo state police command calls on the public to remain vigilant and law-abiding as security operations continue across the state.”