The Abia State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing fight against crime, with the arrest of multiple suspects involved in offences ranging from armed robbery and murder to child theft and unlawful possession of firearms.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, the arrests were made through intelligence-led operations carried out across various parts of the state.
Illegal Firearms and Robbery Activities Foiled
Operatives of the Serious Crime Investigation Squad (SCISSORS) apprehended two suspects, Isaac Emeahara (36) and Michael John (58), on March 19, 2026.
The duo was reportedly conducting illegal stop-and-search operations aimed at robbing and extorting motorists. Recovered from them were two cut-to-size double-barrel guns, two single-barrel guns, and two live cartridges. They have since been charged to court and remanded.
Similarly, a 26-year-old suspect, Ogwo PraiseGod Onodiugo, was arrested in Isuochi while attempting to rob a passerby. Police recovered a revolver pistol, ammunition, and a mobile phone from him.
Criminal Hideout Raided, Drugs and Ammunition Recovered
In a coordinated operation, police operatives from Igbere, Bende, and Uzuakoli divisions raided a criminal hideout at Isieke Ugwueke, arresting four suspects. Items recovered include expended cartridges, locally made gunpowder, tramadol, and substances suspected to be hard drugs.
The suspects have been charged to court and remanded in custody.
Defilement Case Sparks Manhunt
A 27-year-old suspect, Ebere Christian Sunday, was arrested for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old girl alongside two accomplices who are currently at large.
The victim was reportedly threatened with a knife. The suspect has confessed, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing accomplices.
Child Theft Case Under Investigation
Police also arrested two suspects, Chizuruoke Monday (28) and Onyekachi Onyema (29), over the alleged theft of a two-week-old baby in 2020. The case is under investigation, with efforts ongoing to locate the child and arrest other individuals involved.
Murder Cases and Violent Crimes
In separate incidents, police arrested suspects linked to murder cases across the state. Victor Okoro (32) was arrested for the alleged killing of his girlfriend, who later died in hospital. Another suspect, Emmanuel Okoro Kanu (52), was arrested following a fatal altercation that led to the death of a man in Arochukwu.
In a related case, a vigilante member and another suspect were arrested after a fatal shooting during a confrontation. A pump-action gun and cartridges were recovered.
House Breaking, Cultism, and Other Arrests
Police also arrested suspects involved in housebreaking and theft, recovering a dismantled motorcycle and other stolen items. In another operation, a suspect linked to cult-related violence was apprehended with a locally made pistol.
Additionally, fourteen suspects armed with machetes were arrested for attacking a student lodge, injuring occupants, and stealing mobile phones. Police confirmed that normalcy has since been restored.
Recovery of Stolen Property
A stolen tricycle was recovered by operatives in Umuahia after it was tracked to an uncompleted building. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Security
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in maintaining peace and security.
Residents are urged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006.
The statement concluded with an assurance of professionalism and dedication in the discharge of duties by the Command.
