The Imo State Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious armed robbery syndicate responsible for multiple attacks, vehicle thefts, and attempted murder across the state. The operation led to the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of hundreds of stolen motorcycles, vehicles, and other incriminating items.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye announced the breakthrough on Sunday at the Command Headquarters in Owerri. He said the suspects attempted to bribe police operatives with ₦5 million to avoid arrest, but the officers rejected the offer. The arrests followed an intensive investigation by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, led by Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa, which uncovered the group’s extensive criminal network.
According to Okoye, the operation began after a distress call from Chimeze Christian, owner of Wonder Shuttle, who reported that his driver, Paul Ohaka, had gone missing with a shuttle bus bearing registration number KPU 26 XA. The driver was later found unconscious along the Onitsha Road axis in Irete, having been attacked and abandoned by unknown assailants. He was taken to Vadan Hospital, New Owerri, where he is receiving treatment.
Police investigations quickly traced the stolen vehicle to a location where it was being repainted to disguise its identity. Two suspects, Olagoke Jelili and Godday Ezike, were arrested at the scene. Their interrogation led to further discoveries, including 450 motorcycles suspected to have been stolen. The suspects could not provide valid proof of ownership for any of the recovered items.
Okoye explained that subsequent operations led to the arrest of three additional suspects: Okechukwu Prince, Raymond Odinaka, and Paul Martins Anya. Prince and Odinaka confessed to working under the instructions of a fugitive identified as Osita Chigbo, alias “Barr. Oguta.” Anya was allegedly a receiver of stolen vehicles. A search of their premises uncovered thirteen motorcycles believed to be stolen, along with vehicle plate numbers, criminal charms, and ₦6,495,900 in cash.
Further intelligence revealed that the syndicate had planned to relocate the stolen motorcycles to bush paths to evade detection. Acting swiftly, operatives intercepted the movement and recovered the entire cache. The police also seized a snatched shuttle bus and several other exhibits linked to the gang’s operations.
Okoye emphasized that the success of the operation demonstrates the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and its determination to rid Imo State of criminal elements. He noted that the suspects’ attempt to bribe officers underscored the scale of their illegal activities and the professionalism of the police team that refused the offer.
The State Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, has ordered a comprehensive investigation to ensure all suspects face prosecution. He directed that the recovered motorcycles and vehicles be properly documented and verified to identify legitimate owners. Bosso reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on crime and corruption, urging officers to maintain vigilance and integrity in all operations.
The police spokesperson commended residents for their cooperation and encouraged continued support through timely and credible information sharing. He stressed that community involvement remains vital to sustaining security gains and preventing the resurgence of organized crime.
The dismantled syndicate is believed to have operated across several local government areas, targeting commercial motorcycle operators and shuttle bus drivers. Their method involved luring victims under false pretenses, attacking them, and selling stolen vehicles and motorcycles through underground networks. The recovery of such a large number of motorcycles suggests the group had been active for an extended period before being apprehended.
Okoye assured the public that the Command will intensify surveillance and patrols, particularly in areas prone to vehicle theft and armed robbery. He reiterated that the police remain committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to pursue fugitives connected to the case.
The arrests mark one of the largest recoveries of stolen motorcycles in recent years in Imo State. The Command’s swift response and coordination between units highlight the effectiveness of its intelligence-led approach. As investigations continue, the police have vowed to dismantle any remaining cells of the syndicate and bring all collaborators to justice.
Through this operation, the Imo State Police Command has sent a clear message: criminal networks will find no refuge within the state. The Command’s decisive action not only disrupted a major robbery ring but also restored confidence among residents that law enforcement remains steadfast in its duty to uphold peace and security.
