The Imo State Police Command has successfully arrested several individuals linked to a spate of armed robbery and cult-related crimes, including the dismantling of a criminal network targeting phone retail outlets across the state, particularly in the capital city, Owerri.
In a statement released by the State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, the arrest followed a complaint filed by a mobile phone dealer whose store in Eziobodo, Owerri West Local Government Area, was burglarized on July 11, 2025.
Acting swiftly on the report, operatives of the Anti-Vice Unit apprehended a suspect found with four brand-new smartphones, allegedly stolen from the burgled shop.
Further investigation led to the capture of the alleged mastermind behind the break-in and another accomplice whose role was to tamper with the devices’ IMEI numbers in a bid to prevent tracking.
“All the suspects were in custody, and efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate were ongoing,” the police statement confirmed.
In a separate incident, police operatives from Orji Division, responding to a distress call on July 31, 2025, arrested one Ernest Nweke at the Bishop’s Court Roundabout in Owerri North LGA. Nweke, identified as a native of Umuoji in Ngor Okpala and a resident of the World Bank area in Owerri, was apprehended with a locally made pistol.
He and three others were accused of robbing a man identified as Emmanuel Feargod, a resident of Fountain of Knowledge Hostel.
“Nweke, who confessed to being a member of the Vikings cult group, was identified by the victim and arrested while the others fled,” Okoye revealed.
Following Nweke’s confession, police went on to arrest four additional suspects, Chamberlain Prince, Akujuobi Godwin, Ugwuelu Joseph, and Frederick Chigozie, all of whom reportedly admitted to participating in the crime.
Okoye further stated that “all the suspects were currently undergoing investigation and will be duly prosecuted in court.”
Responding to the string of successful arrests, the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, praised the officers involved for their swift and decisive action.
He also reiterated the Command’s dedication to stamping out criminal activity in the state and encouraged the public to remain vigilant.
“He urged residents to report suspicious activities to the nearest Police Station.”
