The arrests were made during intelligence-driven operations across the state in recent weeks.
According to Police spokesperson Henry Okoye on Sunday, among those arrested was 37-year-old Ozioma Ihedoro, a native doctor, who was apprehended in Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area on May 20, 2025.
Ihedoro, who had been on the police wanted list, confessed to being the spiritual adviser to a commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network, known as “B44.”
“Following thorough investigations and intelligence-led operations, 147 suspects were arrested for crimes including armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, rape, stealing, receiving stolen property, child trafficking, and terrorism,” Okoye said.
He further revealed that police recovered a significant cache of weapons from the suspects, including seven AK-47 rifles, three AK-47 magazines, seven pump action guns, seven locally fabricated long guns, and 178 live cartridges.
Additionally, Okoye stated that police rescued seven kidnapped victims during the operation.
The police seized one Q-Link motorcycle, two pump action guns, and 15 live cartridges from the suspects.
In the Umuaka operation, Ihedoro’s shrine was searched, resulting in the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and seven live rounds. The suspect is cooperating with investigators, providing intelligence to help dismantle the syndicate.
“Over the past two months, the Imo State Police Command has intensified efforts to improve the security situation in the state. These operations, executed under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, have significantly curbed crime,” Okoye added.
The Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, praised the resilience of the operatives and reassured the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He called on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
