Imo Police Foil Armed Robbery Operation in Owerri, Arrest Suspect, Recover Fabricated Pistol

Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have disrupted a suspected armed robbery operation in Owerri, arresting one suspect and recovering a locally fabricated pistol during an intelligence-led operation.

The operation was carried out in the early hours of Monday, July 13, 2026, at Works Layout, Owerri, following credible information provided by residents about suspicious activities in the area.

According to the police, operatives moved swiftly to the location in collaboration with personnel of the military and local vigilante members, leading to the arrest of one Onyegbulam Lucky Boy, a native of Umunoha in Mbaitoli Local Government Area, who resides in Umuodu, Mbieri.

The command said another suspect identified as Chijioke escaped after sighting the security team, adding that efforts were ongoing to apprehend him and other members of the suspected criminal group.

Preliminary investigation by the police indicated that the suspects had allegedly mobilised to carry out a robbery operation targeting residents before their plans were disrupted by security operatives.

A locally fabricated pistol suspected to have been intended for use during the alleged operation was recovered, while the arrested suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.

The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, commended the operatives involved in the operation, as well as the military, local vigilante members and residents whose timely information contributed to the success of the intervention.

CP Bosso directed that the investigation be concluded promptly and that all individuals connected to the alleged criminal plot be identified and brought before the law.

The police commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations and strengthening partnerships with relevant security stakeholders to improve safety across the state.

The command urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information on suspicious persons or activities, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in preventing crime and maintaining public security.