Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The Police Command in Ebonyi State, South-East Nigeria, says it has intensified its crackdown on crime across the state, leading to the arrest of 131 suspects, the recovery of firearms and stolen vehicles, as well as the rescue of kidnap victims within the past six weeks.
The Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, disclosed this on Tuesday during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Abakaliki.
She explained that the achievements were recorded between July and mid-August 2025 through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and community engagement.
According to her, 120 males and 11 females were arrested for various offences, including kidnapping, armed robbery, murder, and cult-related activities. Out of this number, 52 suspects have been charged to court, while others remain under investigation.
The CP further revealed that six vehicles, 15 assorted firearms, and 50 rounds of ammunition were recovered during the period under review.
Vehicle Recovery and Rifle Seizure
Uche-Anya said that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, on July 28, stormed a criminal hideout in Umuogodo-Akpu Ngbo, Ohaukwu LGA.
“The operation led to the arrest of one Icha Chidiebere and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a Dakota vehicle, and a Lexus 330 SUV without a registration number,” she stated.
Armed Robbery Arrest
The CP further revealed that on August 6, a suspected motorcycle thief, Nwali Sunday, was apprehended in Onueke by the Special Anti-Cult Squad.
She noted that one KC Sanyang motorcycle was recovered, while other members of the gang remain at large.
Kidnap Rescue in Ikwo
According to Uche-Anya, two kidnapped students were rescued unhurt on August 14 from an uncompleted building in Ikwo LGA.
Three suspects – James Nweke, Oliver Nwali, and Nwojiji Onyebuchi – were arrested at the scene.
Crisis Prevention in Ivo LGA
The CP said timely police intervention helped prevent the Ihie/Ezza Ekembe crisis from escalating.
She disclosed that one Agboti Kingsley, allegedly hired as a mercenary to instigate violence, was arrested and is currently in custody.
Murder Suspects Arrested
Uche-Anya also revealed that, following the killing of one Udu Nnachi during the Ekoli Edda unrest on July 9, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit arrested three suspects.
The suspects were identified as Amarachi Ude, Idika Ama Okoro, and Sunday Ama Olughu.
She added that they will be arraigned upon the conclusion of investigations.
Community Engagement
The CP noted that the agrarian nature of Ebonyi makes land and boundary disputes a recurring challenge during farming seasons.
To forestall violence, she said the Command has deployed early-warning systems and embraced dialogue with stakeholders in flashpoint communities.
“Through proactive strategies, we are recording encouraging results while remaining vigilant in ensuring the safety of our people,” Uche-Anya stated.
She commended residents of the state for their support and urged them to continue providing timely information to the police.
“The Command remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property, and to sustain peace and security across the state,” she assured.
