CRIME
IN ONE MONTH: New Abia Police CP Recounts Major Security Breakthroughs as Command Arrests Over 220 Suspects, Rescues Kidnap Victims
IN ONE MONTH: New Abia Police CP Recounts Major Security Breakthroughs as Command Arrests Over 220 Suspects, Rescues Kidnap Victims
…Recover 17 Firearms, 101 Rounds of Ammunition, Stolen Vehicles as CP Afolabi Intensifies Crime-Fighting Operations
The Abia State Police Command has recorded a major security breakthrough across the state, announcing the arrest of more than 220 suspects, the rescue of kidnapped and trafficked victims, and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, stolen vehicles and other exhibits within about one month of intensified operations.
Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, disclosed the achievements during a press conference at the Command Headquarters in Umuahia, detailing a series of intelligence-led operations carried out since he assumed office on August 10, 2026.
According to the Command, more than 152 cases involving various criminal offences were recorded during the period, leading to the arrest of over 212 male suspects and 10 female suspects.
Many of the cases, police said, have already been investigated and charged to court, with a number of suspects remanded in correctional facilities.
Police Rescue Kidnap and Trafficking Victims
Channel
Among the major breakthroughs announced by the Command was the rescue of nine persons reportedly kidnapped or trafficked.
One of the victims, identified as 44-year-old medical doctor Dr. Ikenna Ilo, was reportedly abducted by armed men on August 19 and taken away in his vehicle.
Police said intelligence gathering enabled officers to trace the movement of the vehicle towards Imo State, resulting in collaboration between the Abia and Imo State Police Commands.
The doctor was subsequently released unharmed in the early hours of August 20.
Three other suspects allegedly connected with dismantling the tracking device in the vehicle and receiving ransom through Point-of-Sale transactions were taken into custody, while police said efforts were continuing to identify and apprehend other members of the suspected syndicate.
Every second brings Nigerians closer to exercising their democratic right and shaping the future of our nation.
Exercise your democratic right responsibly, peacefully and lawfully.
In another operation, police arrested suspects over the alleged attempted trafficking of a one-year-four-month-old girl at a hotel in Obikabia, Obingwa Local Government Area.
The child was rescued and placed in the custody of the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs while investigations continued.
Police also announced the arrest of persons suspected of belonging to another child-trafficking syndicate in Osisioma following the reported escape of a teenage girl who had allegedly been held captive.
Car-Snatching Suspect Arrested, Highlander Recovered
The Command also announced the arrest of a 45-year-old man, Joseph Uzoma Iheonunaekwu, in connection with an alleged armed robbery and car-snatching incident along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway in Aba.
Police said a Toyota Highlander, a locally made cut-to-size double-barrel firearm, a live cartridge, a dummy Beretta pistol, mobile phones and other personal belongings of the victim were recovered during the operation.
The suspect was also being investigated in connection with the earlier theft of a Toyota Venza around Immaculate Street, Aba.
In separate operations, police recovered several other allegedly stolen vehicles, including a Toyota Yaris and a red Toyota Camry.
Police Recover Firearms, 101 Rounds of Ammunition
The Command said its intensified operations also resulted in the recovery of 17 firearms of different specifications and a total of 101 rounds of ammunition and cartridges.
At Okohia in Ukwa West Local Government Area, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit reportedly disrupted attempts by suspected criminals to establish an operational camp inside a bush.
According to police, the suspects fled as officers approached, abandoning a sack containing a locally made pistol, 40 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, empty magazines, military-pattern clothing and substances suspected to be cannabis.
Several other locally made firearms were recovered during separate operations in Aba, Umuahia, Bende and other parts of the state.
35 Arrested During Umuahia Security Raid
In another major operation, 35 male suspects were arrested following a night raid on identified vulnerable locations and suspected criminal blackspots in Umuahia.
Police said substances suspected to be marijuana and other illicit drugs, as well as mobile phones suspected to have been stolen, were recovered.
The Command said the suspects were subsequently charged to court following investigations.
Another operation at Umuodudu, Umueze Ibeku, Umuahia, led to the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs.
Student Rescued From Suspected Kidnappers in Uturu
Police also announced the rescue of a female university student reportedly abducted at gunpoint from an off-campus lodge in Uturu.
Two suspects were arrested after police officers stormed another lodge where the victim was allegedly being held.
A locally made firearm, an axe and an iPhone 11 Pro Max were reportedly recovered during the operation.
The victim was rescued unharmed.
Police Crack Down on Cultism and Criminal Gangs
CP Afolabi said the Command had also intensified its campaign against cultism and criminal gangs.
Four cult-related cases were investigated during the period, with 17 suspects arrested and arraigned.
Police said intelligence-led operations also resulted in the dismantling of criminal networks, including a suspected car-theft syndicate, as well as raids on drug dens allegedly operated by criminal groups.
In Ohokobe, Umuahia North Local Government Area, two suspected cult members were arrested after police received intelligence that they were allegedly preparing to attack a rival group.
Two axes and a quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp were recovered.
Suspects Arrested Over Vandalism of Public Infrastructure
The Command also reported arrests linked to alleged vandalism and theft of government and public infrastructure.
A 55-year-old suspect was arrested in Aba while allegedly attempting to vandalise a railway track. Police said a pump-action gun, cutter, machetes and a J5 vehicle were recovered.
Another suspect was arrested in connection with the alleged theft of iron rods belonging to an Abia State Government solar-power installation project along the Uturu–Isuikwuato Road.
Police also arrested a suspect in Umuahia after an armoured cable allegedly linked to an EEDC transformer installation was recovered during a stop-and-search operation.
Speaking on the overall security situation, CP Afolabi said the Command would continue to rely on intelligence-led policing, crime mapping, proactive crime prevention and community engagement.
He said continuous training and retraining of police personnel would remain a priority in improving operational effectiveness.
The Commissioner also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with communities and other security agencies.
Residents were encouraged to provide timely and credible information to the police to assist ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across Abia State.
The Command maintained that sustained cooperation between residents and security agencies would remain crucial to keeping Abia safe.
THE PRESS RELEASE
PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE ABIA STATE COMMAND CP WILFRED OLUTOKUNBO AFOLABI psc(+) mnips JP HELD ON TUESDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026 AT THE COMMAND HEADQUARTERS UMUAHIA
Good afternoon, gentlemen of the press. I welcome you to this media press conference showcasing the Command’s strides and achievements. Since my assumption of office on the 10th of August, 2026, the Abia State Police Command has intensified efforts to combat crime and criminality across the State. The Command has continued to record significant strides in the discharge of its constitutional mandate of maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
In line with the agenda of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, the Command has emplaced strategic operational measures aimed at strengthening intelligence-led policing, enhancing proactive crime prevention, crime mapping, and intelligence gathering. Additionally, continuous training and retraining of personnel is ongoing to ensure optimal performance in line with our constitutional responsibilities.
These measures have yielded positive results and some of the operational strides include;
1. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR ARMED ROBBERY/CAR SNATCHING/RECOVERY OF VEHICLE, FIREARM AND OTHER EXHIBITS
SUSPECT:
Joseph Uzoma Iheonunaekwu, male, 45 years
EXHIBITS:
One (1) Toyota Highlander, ash color, registration number RBC 779 BH
One (1) handbag containing mobile phones and other personal effects
One (1) locally made cut-to-size double-barrel gun
One (1) live cartridge
One (1) dummy Beretta pistol
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) Abia State Police Command, on 03/09/2026, apprehended Joseph Uzoma Iheonunaekwu in connection with an armed robbery and car-snatching incident along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Aba.
The suspect was apprehended after a group of armed hoodlums robbed a female victim of her Toyota Highlander and handbag containing mobile phones and other personal belongings.
The operatives swiftly mobilized to the scene on Intel, resulting in the apprehension of the suspect and recovery of the vehicle.
Further search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of one locally made cut-to-size double-barrel gun loaded with one live cartridge, one dummy Beretta pistol, as well as the victim’s handbag containing her mobile phones and personal belongings.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is a member of the criminal syndicate linked to the robbery and car-snatching of another victim’s Toyota Venza around Immaculate Street, Aba, on 18/08/2026. The suspect has made useful confessional statements in admission of the crimes, while discreet investigation is ongoing.
2. RESCUE OF A KIDNAP VICTIM
VICTIM:
Dr. Ikenna Ilo “male” 44 yrs
On 19/08/2026 the Command received a report that a medical doctor was abducted by armed hoodlums and forced into his vehicle, after which the perpetrators fled the area. Leveraging actionable intelligence, operatives of the Command were immediately deployed, and the movement of the vehicle was traced towards Imo State, prompting collaboration with the Imo State Police Command. Following sustained and coordinated efforts by the police, the victim was released unharmed in the early hours of 20/08/2026. Three (3) other suspects who were involved in the dismantling of the tracker in the vehicle and the POS operators who received ransom are in our custody as investigation is ongoing and efforts intensified to identify, apprehend and dismantle other members of the criminal syndicate.
3. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR CONSPIRACY/CHILD TRAFFICKING AND RESCUE OF VICTIM
SUSPECTS:
David Solomon Samson, male 27years
Chioma Chinaza, female 40 years
Ogechi Onwuka, female 23 years
Veronica Edem Etim Tom, female, 21 years
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Gender Section, on 07/09/2026, took custody of four suspects transferred from the Central Police Station (CPS), Umuahia, in connection with a case of conspiracy and child trafficking.
The suspects were apprehended at a hotel in Obikabia, Obingwa LGA, while attempting to sell and traffic a one-year-four-month-old female child.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the child is the biological daughter of one of the suspects. The four suspects are currently in Police custody while the child is in the custody of Ministry of Women Affairs. Discreet investigation is in progress.
4. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR CHILD ABUSE/ASSAULT
SUSPECT:
Uzoma Uwaeme, male
Leveraging on actionable intelligence and on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, operatives of Abayi Divisional Headquarters, on 09/09/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect in connection with the brutal abuse and assault of his 13-year-old son, whose ordeal was captured in a viral video circulating on social media.
Investigation revealed that the victim was tied with a rope, severely flogged, stripped naked, and left exposed under the scorching sun, sustaining injuries in the process. The victim has been rescued and is currently in stable condition under the protective custody of the Police. Discreet investigation is ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Umuahia and the child is currently in the protective custody of Ministry of Women Affairs.
5. RECOVERY OF ARMS/AMMUNITION AND OTHER EXHIBITS FROM A CRIMINAL SYNDICATE
EXHIBITS:
One (1) locally made single-barrel pistol
One (1) live cartridge
Forty (40) rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition
Two (2) rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition
Four (4) empty magazines
One (1) military-pattern clothing
One (1) torchlight
Four (4) wraps of dried weeds suspected to be Cannabis sativa
Four (4) packets of cigarettes
Leveraging on credible and actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 30/08/2026, mobilised to a bush location at Okohia, Ukwa West LGA, where suspected members of a criminal syndicate were attempting to establish an operational camp.
On sighting the advancing police team, the suspects fled the scene and abandoned a sack containing firearms, ammunition and other items. A search of the abandoned bag led to the recovery of one locally made single-barrel pistol, 40 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, four empty magazines, military-pattern clothing, a torchlight, substances suspected to be Cannabis sativa and cigarettes. The recovered exhibits have been secured in police custody, while investigation is ongoing.
From 10th of August till date, the Command has recorded over 152 cases of various criminal offences, leading to the arrest of over 212 male suspects and 10 female suspects. Many of these cases have been thoroughly investigated, charged to court, and are currently undergoing prosecution, with suspects remanded in correctional centers.
Furthermore, the Command has recorded significant operational successes in the fight against criminal gang groups (cultism) and related crimes. A total of four cult-related cases were investigated, 17 suspects arrested and arraigned, while 17 firearms of various specifications were recovered during these intelligence-led operations.
Through sustained intelligence-driven operations and proactive policing strategies, the Command has also rescued nine kidnapped/trafficked victims, recovered 101 rounds of ammunition and cartridges, dismantled criminal networks, including a notorious car theft syndicate, and destroyed drug dens operated by criminal gangs within the State.
In addition, six (6) stolen vehicles, including tricycles and motorcycles, were recovered. Bags containing substances suspected to be Cannabis sativa and other illicit drugs were also seized. These will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation, in line with our commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration.
The Command remains committed to deepening community partnerships, strengthening intelligence gathering, and enhancing police visibility across the State. We have continued to engage stakeholders across various communities to identify and respond to their peculiar security concerns.
BELOW ARE OTHER CASES
6. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR KIDNAPPING/ARMED ROBBERY/RESCUE OF VICTIM
SUSPECTS:
Joseph Uche “male”
Godwin Favour “male”
EXHIBITS:
One (1) locally made firearm
One (1) axe
One (1) iPhone 11 Pro Max
Leveraging on credible and actionable intelligence, operatives of Uturu Divisional Police Headquarters, on 30/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspects in connection with the kidnapping and armed robbery of a female university student at an off-campus lodge in Uturu.
The victim was abducted at gunpoint and was subsequently taken to another lodge where she was held captive. Following the intelligence received, the operatives mobilized to the location and stormed the premises, where the two suspects were arrested and the victim rescued unharmed. One locally made firearm, an axe and an iPhone 11 Pro Max were recovered from the suspects. Discreet investigation is ongoing.
7. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR DEFILEMENT
SUSPECT:
Prince Chibuike Chukwudi “male” 19 yrs
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Eastern Ngwa Divisional Headquarters, on 10/08/2026, arrested the above-named suspect in connection with the defilement of a 12-year-old male child. The suspect was alleged to have lured the victim into a bush, where the offence was committed. Case has been concluded by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and charged to court.
8. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR VANDALIZATION OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY/RECOVERY OF FIREARM AND OTHER WEAPONS
SUSPECT:
Michael Chinwendu “male” 55 yrs.
EXHIBITS:
One (1) cutter
One (1) pump-action gun
Two (2) machetes
One (1) white J5 vehicle with registration number KKE 476 AA
One (1) Itel mobile phone
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Area Command Aba, on 18/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect while attempting to vandalize a railway track. A cutter, pump-action firearm, two machetes, a J5 vehicle and a mobile phone were recovered from the suspect, Case has been concluded and charged to court.
9. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR OBTAINING BY FALSE PRETENSE (OBT)
SUSPECT:
Chidera Samuel Nwadike “male” 28 yrs.
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Uratta Divisional Police Headquarters, on 27/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect for obtaining the sum of ₦500,000 from someone under the pretext of processing travel documents for a scholarship programme in Finland.
When the promised travel arrangements did not materialize and demands for a refund were made, the suspect became unreachable and subsequently changed his social media handles while continuing to present himself as a travel consultant.
The suspect is currently in police custody and discreet investigation is ongoing.
10. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR DEFILEMENT
SUSPECT:
Francis Ukaegbu “male” 62 yrs.
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Uratta Divisional Police Headquarters, on 27/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect for defiling a nine-year-old female. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect had lured her with food and subsequently subjected her to sexual abuse. Investigation is ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
11. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR VANDALISATION OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTIES
SUSPECT:
Okpara Christian “male” 28 yrs
EXHIBITS:
One (1) vandalized armoured cable
One (1) cutlass
One (1) pair of pliers
Two (2) spanners
Bolts and washers
Fire lighters
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Central Police Station, Umuahia, on 23/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect during a stop-and-search operation at Bende Tower, Umuahia, while he was in possession of an armored cable wire suspected to have been obtained from a vandalized electricity installation.
The suspect failed to give a satisfactory explanation regarding the source of the cable. Further intelligence linked the vandalized material to Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) transformer installation at Adelabu Estate, Umuahia. Other items recovered from the suspect included a cutlass, pliers, spanners, bolts and washers, and fire lighters. Case has been concluded and charged to court.
12. RAID/ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF ILLICIT DRUGS
SUSPECTS:
Thirty-five (35) male suspects
EXHIBITS:
Substances suspected to be marijuana and other illicit drugs
Mobile phones
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Central Police Station, Umuahia, in collaboration with local security personnel, on 23/08/2026, embarked on a night raid of identified vulnerable locations and criminal blackspots within the metropolis. The operation resulted in the apprehension of thirty-five (35) male suspects and the recovery of assorted substances suspected to be marijuana, other illicit drugs and suspected stolen mobile phones.
The suspects have been charged to court on conclusion of investigation.
13. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR CONSPIRACY/UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM/ RECOVERY OF FIREARM
SUSPECTS:
Chukwuneme Nnabugwu “male” 26 yrs
Okpechi Nnanyerem “male” 25 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) locally made pistol
One (1) unregistered Honda motorcycle
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Area Command, Umuahia, on 01/09/2026, apprehended the above-named suspects during a stop-and-search operation along Finbarrs Road, Umuahia. The suspects were intercepted while riding an unregistered Honda motorcycle, with one of them carrying a bag. A search of the bag led to the recovery of one locally made pistol. The suspects have been charged to court on conclusion of investigation.
14. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR CONSPIRACY/UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM
SUSPECT:
Iwuchukwu Samuel “male” 23 yrs
EXHIBITS:
One (1) locally made pistol
One (1) live cartridge
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, on 16/08/2026, operatives of Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), arrested the above-named suspect, who was identified as an alleged member of the Black Axe Confraternity. One locally made pistol and one live cartridge were recovered from him. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of his gang.
15. RECOVERY OF STOLEN VEHICLE/ARREST OF SUSPECT
SUSPECT:
Chidalu Enweruzo “male” 24 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) black Toyota Yaris with registration number BDG 227 CH.
Acting on actionable intelligence, operatives from Ugwunagbo Divisional Headquarters, on 11/08/2026, recovered a black Toyota Yaris, registration number BDG 227 CH, at Aloaji Mechanic Village, Ugwunagbo LGA. The vehicle, which had earlier been removed from a residence where it was parked on 09/08/2026, was recovered in the possession of the above-named suspect, who was arrested at the scene. The vehicle has been recovered, Case has been concluded and charged to court.
16. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY/UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM AND RECOVERY OF FIREARM
SUSPECTS:
Chikwado Precious “male” 27 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) locally made pistol
One (1) Chevrolet vehicle with registration number JJJ 874 YH
Leveraging on credible and actionable intelligence that suspected hoodlums had assembled along Bonny Street, Umuahia, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 31/08/2026, apprehended two suspects. Further investigation revealed that a locally made pistol had been concealed inside a Chevrolet vehicle. The firearm and vehicle were subsequently recovered. The suspects are in police custody. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices and recover additional weapons.
17. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR CONSPIRACY/STEALING
SUSPECTS
Chidiebube Agomuo “male”
Ifeanyichukwu Nwogu “male”
Onyekachi John “male”
Prince Iheukwumere “male”
Victor Onyekachi “male”
EXHIBITS
Iron rods
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Ohuhu Divisional Police Headquarters, on 08/08/2026, arrested five suspects mentioned above in connection with the stealing of a Sumec generator valued at approximately ₦400,000, and iron rods from public construction sites within the Ekeoba/Ohuhu axis. The stolen iron rods has been recovered while investigations are ongoing to apprehend other suspects at large.
18. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF ILLICIT HARD DRUGS
SUSPECTS:
Alum Okporuka “male” 21 yrs
Chigozie Atuegbu “male” 20 yrs
Nzeako Daniel “male” 23 yrs
Maduka Victor “male” 26 yrs
Tochukwu Chidozie “male” 35 yrs
EXHIBITS:
Substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit substances.
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Central Police Station (CPS), Umuahia, on 15/08/2026, raided a suspected illicit drug-dealing hideout at Umuodudu, Umueze Ibeku, Umuahia, leading to the arrest of the above-named suspects. Substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other hard drugs were recovered. The suspects were subsequently charged to court and remanded in correctional custody.
19. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM/RECOVERY OF FIREARM, AMMUNITION AND HARD DRUGS
SUSPECTS:
Ebenezer Daniel “male” 33 yrs
ThankGod Aguzie “male” 45 yrs
EXHIBITS:
One (1) locally made pistol
Five (5) live cartridges
Several wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp
Substances suspected to be Tramadol
Leveraging on actionable intelligence on the activities of suspected hoodlums around Ogbor Hill Aba, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), in collaboration with personnel of Operation Crush, on 14/08/2026, arrested the above-named suspects. During the operation, one locally made pistol with five live cartridges, as well as substances suspected to be Indian hemp and Tramadol, were recovered from the suspects, case has been concluded and charged to court.
20. RECOVERY OF STOLEN VEHICLE
EXHIBIT:
One (1) red Toyota Camry with registration number GWA 275 DF.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Abia State Police Command, on 14/08/2026, recovered a red Toyota Camry with registration number GWA 275 DF, belonging to Enviable Motors, in Aba. The vehicle was recovered after the suspects abandoned it and fled the scene. Investigation is ongoing.
21. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR CONSPIRACY/ARMED ROBBERY/UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM/RECOVERY OF FIREARM AND AMMUNITIONS
SUSPECT:
Iwuchukwu Samuel “male” 23 yrs.
EXHIBITS:
One (1) locally made pistol
One (1) live cartridge
Leveraging on actionable intelligence that suspected armed robbers operating on a motorcycle were sighted around Okpara Square, Umuahia, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 16/08/2026, mobilized to the area and arrested the above-named suspect, while other members of the gang fled the scene. One locally made pistol and one live cartridge were recovered from the suspect. Case has been concluded and charged to court.
22. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR DEFILEMENT
SUSPECT:
Gabriel Iyam “male” 21 yrs.
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Nkporo Divisional Headquarters, on 16/08/2026, arrested the above-named suspect, for defiling a 6 year old girl.
Investigation revealed that the suspect, a tenant residing within the same premises as the victim, sexually assaulted her and subsequently took her to a clinic for medical treatment without the knowledge of her family. The victim has been placed under protective Custody of the Women Affairs. Case has been charged to court.
23. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR ASSAULT
SUSPECT:
Patrick Chimobi Emenike “male” 58 yrs
EXHIBIT
One (1) machete
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of World Bank Divisional Police Headquarters, on 21/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect for assaulting and physically abusing his 21-year-old daughter. The suspect was reported to have tied his daughter with a rope and inflicted injuries on her with a machete. Exhibits were recovered and brought to the station. Case has been concluded and charged to court.
24. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR DEFILEMENT
SUSPECT:
Ikechukwu Emmanuel “male” 36 yrs
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of World Bank Divisional Police Headquarters in collaboration with members of the community, on 27/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect for defiling a nine-year-old female.
During investigation, the suspect confessed to the crime. Case has been concluded and charged to court.
25. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR MALICIOUS DAMAGE/VANDALIZATION OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY
SUSPECT:
Joseph Success “male” 32 yrs
EXHIBITS:
Iron rods
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Uturu Divisional Police Headquarters, on 28/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect in connection with the malicious damage and stealing of iron rods belonging to a solar power installation project of the Abia State Government along the Uturu–Isuikwuato Road.
The suspect, an iron bender reportedly working with the company handling the project, was apprehended at the scene with the affected materials. The recovered materials were secured as exhibits, while case has been concluded and charged to court.
26. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM/RECOVERY OF FIREARM
SUSPECT:
Lucky Nwaoye “male” 40 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) locally made revolver pistol
Leveraging on actionable intelligence on the activities of suspected criminals around Port Harcourt Road, Aba, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 25/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect at his residence. A search conducted at the premises led to the recovery of one locally made revolver pistol. The suspect is currently in police custody, Case has been concluded and charged to court.
27. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM/RECOVERY OF FIREARM
SUSPECT:
David Emmanuel Chinonso “male” 24 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) locally made pistol
Leveraging on actionable intelligence concerning the activities of suspected hoodlums around Umuorie Community, Bende LGA, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 26/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect. One locally made pistol was recovered from him. Discreet investigation is ongoing.
28. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR RAPE
SUSPECT:
Gogo Chimezie “male” 30 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) skirt
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Uratta Divisional Police Headquarters, on 28/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect for raping an 18-year-old woman. The suspect was reported to have raped the victim after she went to retrieve her phone battery from his workplace, where he dragged her into a room, assaulted her and had sexual intercourse with her without her consent. The victim further alleged that the suspect threatened her if she disclosed the incident.
Investigation is ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
29. ARREST OF SUSPECTS FOR MURDER/CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY
SUSPECTS:
Justice Ezeimadu “male” 20 yrs
Oti Chibueze “male” 26 yrs
Ifeanyi Joshua “male” 19 yrs
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Ikwuano Divisional Police Headquarters, on 28/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspects at a criminal location in Isiala Oboru. Preliminary investigation linked the suspects to the murder of one Ihechiluru John, 28 years old, at Ihim, Ibere, on 03/07/2026, after which they reportedly fled the community. The case has been charged to court on conclusion of investigation.
30. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER/UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF FIREARM/RECOVERY OF FIREARM AND AMMUNITION
SUSPECT:
Ifeanyi Wisdom Elijah “male” 27 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) locally made pistol
One (1) live cartridge
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of Central Police Station, Umuahia, in collaboration with personnel of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 28/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect who is a member of a violent gang group and was caught shooting sporadically along Uwalaka Street, Umuahia.
Intelligence linked the suspect to the shooting and grievous wounding of a 28-year-old male victim. One locally made pistol loaded with a live cartridge was recovered from the suspect. Investigation are ongoing to apprehend other suspects.
31. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR MURDER/RECOVERY OF FIREARM
SUSPECT:
Anthony Chibuike “male” 37 yrs
EXHIBIT:
One (1) English Beretta pistol
One (1) round of ammunition
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 29/08/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of an 80-year-old man at Igbere Street, Umuahia. The victim was found critically injured at the scene and was immediately evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, where he was confirmed dead.
The suspect and recovered firearm are in police custody, while investigation is ongoing.
32. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR ABDUCTION/RESCUE OF VICTIM
SUSPECT:
David Daberechukwu Chukwuemeka “male” 22 yrs
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 01/09/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect in connection with the alleged abduction of a 16-year-old female. The victim had reportedly left home and was subsequently traced to the suspect.
The victim was successfully rescued and discreet investigation is ongoing.
33. ARREST OF MEMBERS OF SUSPECTED CHILD TRAFFICKING SYNDICATE/RESCUE OF VICTIM
SUSPECTS:
Ogochukwu Nwaneri “female” 27 yrs
Ngozi Nwaneri “female” 65 yrs
Ikenna Nwaneri “male” 30 yrs
Obinna Nwaneri “male” 32 yrs
Emeka James “male” 31 yrs
Favour Okorie “female” 22 yrs
Edoki Gift “female” 23 yrs
Leveraging on actionable intelligence following the escape of a female teenager who had allegedly been held captive, operatives of the Voilent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 03/09/2026, swiftly mobilised to a suspected criminal hideout in Osisioma and apprehended eight persons suspected to be members of a child trafficking syndicate.
The suspects are currently in police custody, while discreet investigation is in progress.
34. ARREST OF SUSPECTS/RECOVERY OF WEAPONS AND ILLICIT DRUGS
SUSPECTS:
Kelechi Chukwuemeka “male” 26 yrs
Okechukwu Ebuka Hope “male” 28 yrs
EXHIBITS:
Two (2) axes
Large quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), on 02/09/2026, apprehended two suspected cult members at Ohokobe, Umuahia North LGA, while allegedly preparing to attack a rival cult group. The suspects were found in possession of weapons and subsequently admitted during investigation to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity.
Two axes and a large quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp were recovered from them. Investigation is ongoing.
35. ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR MURDER/RECOVERY OF MACHETE
SUSPECT:
Alozie Henry Enyinnaya Sunday, male, 47
EXHIBIT:
One machete
Leveraging on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Command, on 06/09/2026, apprehended the above-named suspect in connection with the alleged murder of one Nnamdi Godfrey, 43years old at Umuomayi Village, Akpaambaato Autonomous Community, Obingwa LGA.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect and the deceased engaged in a physical fight over a lingering dispute, during which the suspect inflicted a deep machete cut on the deceased’s hand, causing severe blood loss which led to his demise. The suspect, who fled the scene after the incident has been apprehended by the Police. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Umuahia, for discreet investigation.
CONCLUSIVELY
The Command reaffirms its commitment to proactive policing through continuous training and retraining of personnel, and improved operational effectiveness, in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police.
Members of the public are encouraged to continue to collaborate with the Police by providing timely and useful information to the nearest police station or through our dedicated communication channels, as together we can keep Abia State safe.
Thank you.
SIGNED
DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka
LLB, anipr, MNISMA
Police Public Relations Officer
FOR: Commissioner Of Police
Abia State Command
11th September 2026
DO YOU WANT TO WHISTLEBLOW, REPORT FRAUD, THEFT OR INJUSTICE OR INTIMIDATION? SEND US YOUR STORY/REPORT TO NEWSDESK@MEDIATODAY.NG
