Police Bust Phone-Theft Syndicate, Nab Suspects

The Imo State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in its ongoing fight against crime with the dismantling of a notorious phone-theft syndicate and the arrest of multiple suspects involved in armed robbery and cult-related activities in Owerri.

According to a press release signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, the Anti-Vice Unit swung into action following a complaint from a phone dealer in Eziobodo, whose shop was burgled on July 11.

A suspect was apprehended in possession of four brand-new stolen phones, which led to the arrest of the principal burglar and an accomplice known for tampering with phone IMEI numbers to prevent tracking.

All arrested suspects are in custody, while police efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate remain ongoing.

Similarly, police operatives from Orji Division, responding to a distress call at about 9:00 p.m. on July 31, arrested one Ernest Nweke at Bishop’s Court Roundabout in Owerri North Local Government Area. Nweke, a native of Umuoji in Ngor Okpala LGA and resident of World Bank Housing Estate, was found in possession of a locally fabricated pistol. He and three others had allegedly robbed a student, Emmanuel Feargod, at the Fountain of Knowledge Hostel.

Nweke confessed to being a member of the Vikings cult group and was identified by the victim. His confession led to the arrest of four other suspects: Chamberlain Prince, Akujuobi Godwin, Ugwuelu Joseph, and Frederick Chigozie, who also confessed to participating in the crime. All suspects are currently under investigation and will be charged in court.

Commending the officers for their swift action, Commissioner of Police CP Aboki Danjuma reassured the public of the Command’s determination to combat crime. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or call the Command’s emergency line at 0803 477 3600.