By Deborah Nnamdi
Operatives of the Agwa Division of the Imo State Police Command have killed two suspected kidnappers during a patrol operation along the Obudi–Mgbala Road.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, told journalists at the police headquarters in Owerri that the suspects were shot dead on Tuesday after officers led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Agwa Division engaged the gang, who were operating with a white tricycle bus.
According to Okoye, while other members of the gang escaped with injuries, police recovered two pump-action rifles, seven live cartridges, two Android phones, and the body of an unidentified female victim, who was rescued but later died in the hospital.
He said the operation was part of ongoing efforts by the command to curb kidnapping and violent crimes across the state. In a separate raid the same day, operatives of the Nekede Division arrested 12 suspects at Umuezeruokam Forest, which links Avu Forest, recovering 12 phones, two daggers, a cutlass, a saw blade, a bunch of arrows, and assorted hard drugs. The case has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation.
Okoye assured residents that the command would sustain its operations to dismantle criminal networks and enhance public safety.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command has warned residents that the long-standing ban on fireworks remains fully in force as the Christmas and New Year celebrations approach.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda directed strict enforcement of the prohibition on the sale, use, storage, and public display of pyrotechnics, including knock-outs and bangers.
The command said the measure is aimed at preventing criminals from using fireworks as a cover to commit offences, cause panic, or evade security surveillance. Edafe emphasized that the ban is not a seasonal directive but an essential part of the state’s security strategy during high-risk periods.
