Imo: Police foil suspected robbery operation, arrest one suspect

Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have foiled a suspected armed robbery operation and arrested one suspect identified as Onyegbulem Lucky Boy, a native of Umunoha in Mbaitoli council area of Imo State.

During a coordinated intelligence-led operation at Works Layout, Owerri, the operatives recovered a locally fabricated pistol.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Imo State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Okoye Henry, DSP, he revealed that the operation was conducted in the early hours of Monday, 13th July 2026, following credible information from vigilant residents.

He said acting swiftly, Police operatives, led by DPO Orji, in collaboration with the Military and local vigilante members, combed the area and arrested the suspect residing at Umuodu, Mbieri, while his accomplice, one Chijioke, escaped on sighting the security team.

The PPRO said that preliminary investigation indicates that the suspects had allegedly mobilised to rob unsuspecting residents before the operation was disrupted.

He added that a locally fabricated pistol believed to have been intended for the crime was recovered, while the arrested suspect remains in custody.

He assured that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and other members of the gang.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, highly impressed by this development, commended the professionalism of the operatives and the support of the Military, local vigilante members, and residents whose timely information led to the success of the operation.

He directed that the investigation be concluded promptly and all those connected to the criminal plot be brought to justice.

The Command assures residents that intelligence-led operations and strategic security partnerships will continue across the State.

For members of the public, he urged them to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities, as credible information remains vital in the fight against criminality.