By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with vigilantes of the Imo State Security Organization, on Monday arrested 24 suspects from different locations within the forest in Owerri West local government Area of the state.

The intensive combing operation across forested areas include; Eziobodo, Ihiagwa, Nekede, and Okolochi communities.

This in with proactive security measures emplaced by the commissioner of police, CP Audu Garba Bosso to nip in the bud the alleged kidnapping and violence incidents reported in parts of Owerri West local government Area.

The operation, which was led by the Area Commander, Owerri Urban, ACP Michael Abattam, involved the deployment of over 250 police personnel and vigilante operatives.

The operation targeted suspected criminal hideouts and black spots within the forested areas with the aim of completely eradicating criminal activities and restoring public confidence in the affected communities.

The arrested suspects include “Jonah Abotu ‘m’ 21yrs, Abel John ‘m’ 22yrs, Ibrahim Ubande ‘m’ 40yrs, Peter Samuel ‘m’ 28yrs, Kabiru Yahaya ‘m’ 20yrs, Yahaya Adamu ‘m’ 22yrs, and others.”

Exhibits recovered from some of the suspects include weeds suspected to be cannabis sativa, over six (6) unregistered motorcycles, and other incriminating items.

The suspects have been transferred to the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) for thorough investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.

This was contained in a statement issued On Tuesday by the command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry and made available to journalists in Owerri.

The Commissioner of Police has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against all forms of criminality across the state.

He urged residents to remain security conscious and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency lines: 0803 477 3600 or 09116606669.

The Command further assures the public that such coordinated operations will be sustained across the State until all criminal elements are completely flushed out of their hideouts.