The Imo State Police Command has apprehended five individuals involved in a kidnapping ring that has been terrorizing residents in Obinze, Avu, and surrounding areas.
The suspects are Umaru Usman, 40, from Mauree, Sokoto State; Tukur Yau, 25, from Dawakinkudur, Kano State; Musbau Sabo, 18, from Warsaw Local Government, Kano State; Abdul Ibrahim, 30, from Sokoto State; and Jubrin Idris, 35, also from Sokoto State.
According to a press release by Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye, the arrest follows the kidnapping of a 26-year-old woman from her home in Obinze, Owerri West local government area, on August 18, 2024.
The Commissioner of Police swiftly deployed the Command’s anti-kidnapping unit with all necessary resources and intelligence to track down the perpetrators and secure the victim’s release.
The operation led to the discovery of the suspects in a forest hideout in Avu.
The victim was rescued unharmed, and the suspects were taken into custody.
Items recovered from them include a pump-action gun, five cartridges, two daggers, a cutlass, and various criminal charms.
The police are continuing their investigation to capture any remaining gang members and ensure they face justice.