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The Imo State Police Command, in synergy with other security agencies and local vigilante groups, has combed forests that hoodlums use as a hideout to perpetuate their criminal activities.
Recall that CrimeFacts news had earlier reported how panic gripped travelers along the Okpala-Aba road near the Sam Mbakwe International Airport corridor last week, as gunmen suspected to be herdsmen blocked the highway, disrupted movement, and reportedly abducted multiple passengers.
Eyewitness accounts and social media reports suggest the attackers, described by locals as herdsmen, targeted commercial vehicles, leaving travelers stranded and sparking fears of a worsening security crisis in the area.
A viral video obtained by *CrimeFacts* on Saturday showed several vehicles abandoned on the road, with passengers standing helplessly as the sound of gunshots echoed in the background. A male voice in the footage lamented, “These herdsmen have turned this road into a kidnapping zone. They strike constantly, and no one is safe.” Witnesses claimed the assailants dragged victims into nearby bushes, though the exact number of abductees remains unconfirmed.
The attack paralyzed traffic for hours, stranding travelers en route to Aba, Owerri, and neighboring states. Many passengers reportedly fled into nearby communities for safety, while others remained trapped until security forces arrived.
The resident and several social media users raised alarms about the deteriorating security situation along the critical airport route, writing: “Aba Road from Owerri is becoming a danger zone. Just days ago, a driver was killed, and his passenger was taken into the bush. When will this end?”
The Okpala-Aba road, a key artery connecting Imo State to Abia State, has seen a spike in violent incidents linked to armed groups in recent months. Residents accuse herdsmen of collaborating with criminal elements to carry out kidnappings for ransom, though no group has claimed responsibility for Friday’s attack.
However, in a statement on Monday by the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye disclosed that a coordinated raid targeted forested areas surrounding Avu, Irete, Okuku, Ihiagwa, and Obinze in Owerri West LGA, as well as parts of Ngor Okpala LGA and other locations od the State.
Okoye, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, said that the operation led to the arrest of eight suspects at Okuku in Owerri West LGA and the recovery of two automatic pump-action guns, 17 live cartridges, nine walkie-talkies, three cutlasses, seven mobile phones, laptops, a power bike, and other incriminating items.
The command noted that the suspects are currently undergoing intensive investigation to determine their level of involvement and to aid in apprehending other accomplices.
The Imo PPRO added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has established a Special Tactical Unit tasked with identifying and flushing out criminals hiding in forests and other hideouts across the state. This specialized unit, equipped for intelligence-driven operations, will work closely with security agencies and local vigilantes to sustain the fight against crime and criminality.
CP Danjuma urged all law-abiding citizens to support ongoing security efforts by providing credible information on suspicious activities. Reports can be made at the nearest police station or through the following emergency hotlines: 0803 477 3600, 0814 802 4755.
