Security operatives raid criminal hideouts in Imo, kill four

A joint security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Armed Forces, Department of State Security Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dismantled criminal hideouts responsible for persistent unrest in Ezioha, Eziama Autonomous Community, Mbaitoli Local Government Area, Imo State.

The operation, conducted under the aegis of “Operation Udoka,” resulted in the neutralization of four suspects, the arrest of five others, and the recovery of firearms and other incriminating items linked to the suspects.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye, in a statement on Sunday, said, “The operation led to the killing of four suspects, the arrest of five, recovery of various firearms and other items linked to the suspects.”

He emphasised that the success of the operation is attributed to the synergy among the security outfits in their renewed commitment to enhancing security and combating insurgency.

Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma, alongside other top service commanders, assessed the ongoing operations in Ezioha, targeting criminal enclaves tied to violent attacks and kidnappings.

The operation reportedly included a fierce gunfight with the suspects, during which eight motorcycles, several dangerous weapons, explosive devices, and communication equipment were recovered.

Key figures present during the assessment included: Brigadier General U.A. Lawal, Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze; Air Commodore David Bello, Commander of NAF 211 Quick Response Group, Owerri; Commodore M.B. Salisu, Naval Commander, Oguta; DSS Commander, NSCDC Commander, and Brig. Gen. Joseph Ogbonna (Rtd.), Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Affairs.

The CP commended the professionalism displayed by the operatives and stressed the need for public cooperation, particularly through intelligence sharing, to bolster crime-fighting efforts.

“The security agencies are working together to ensure the safety of residents. We urge citizens to partner with law enforcement to create a peaceful and secure environment, especially as the holiday season approaches,” Danjuma reassured.