Operatives of the Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit have dismantled a notorious IPOB/ESN syndicate involved in kidnapping and armed robbery.
The command, in a statement in Owerri, said 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, 20, and Abuchi Joseph, 24, were arrested.
The gang, according to the police, had been involved in the abduction of Osuji Caleb Chimereze and three others on November 12, 2024, during which they stole a Mercedes Benz car and other valuables.
The police operation followed extensive investigation and intelligence gathering.
During the confrontation, the operatives recovered six AK-47 rifles with breach nos; 11330, 12102, 3836, 8260 and 9940; 113 rounds of ammunition, a locally made gun, and two stolen vehicles: a Mercedes Benz ML 350 with reg number RRT 469 FF and a Hijet shuttle bus number JRV 42 XA.
The suspects had used the vehicles in their criminal activities, including the kidnapping of other victims.
Unfortunately, two police officers were injured during the exchange of fire and later succumbed to their injuries.
The command said efforts are on to capture the members of the syndicate now on the run.
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