By Adejumo Adekunle –
Owerri – On Wednesday, the Imo State Police Command announced that its officers had successfully neutralized a suspected armed robber and wounded others during a violent clash.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Henry Okoye, shared the details with reporters in Owerri, explaining that the incident occurred on Dominion Street near Don Kay in Owerri North Local Government Area. The police responded swiftly after receiving an urgent distress call from residents about an armed robbery in progress.
According to Okoye, the Imo police operatives dismantled a notorious armed robbery gang that had been terrorizing the community. This successful operation is credited to the strategic security initiatives put in place by the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, to combat violent crime, especially nighttime offenses.
“At around 3:20 AM on October 15, 2024, a patrol team from the Owerri North Division responded quickly to a distress call regarding an armed robbery on Dominion Street. Upon arrival, our officers faced gunfire from the armed robbers. They bravely maneuvered into strategic positions and returned fire,” Okoye said.
During the gunfight, one suspect was fatally shot, while a second, identified as 31-year-old Moses Nanzi from Faringada, Plateau State, sustained injuries and was arrested. Other members of the gang managed to escape into nearby bushes. A double-barrel shotgun and seven rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the arrested suspect.
Efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining suspects, and the arrested individual will be prosecuted after a thorough investigation. The Imo State Police Command remains dedicated to safeguarding the public and encourages residents to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the emergency number, 0803 477 3600. Together, we can foster safety and security, essential for the state’s economic growth and development.