In a significant crackdown on criminal activities, the Imo State Police Command has apprehended three individuals allegedly linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in connection with the abduction and murder of retired Major General Richard Duru. The suspects, identified as Chukwunonso Emmanuel, Okoroigwe Goodness, and Innocent Ogu, were paraded at the police headquarters in Owerri on Thursday.
Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, announced that the suspects were arrested in various locations across Imo and Anambra States. The arrests followed extensive intelligence gathering and a sustained effort by the command’s anti-kidnapping unit. According to the police, the suspects confessed to their involvement in the kidnapping and murder of Major General Duru and their affiliation with the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Commissioner Danjuma, represented by police spokesman Henry Okoye, detailed the successful recovery of 48 different firearms, 552 rounds of live ammunition, and several stolen vehicles from the suspects. Additionally, 13 kidnapped victims were rescued, and assets worth N9 million were seized.
“The suspects, members of a notorious kidnap syndicate, were apprehended through diligent police work. Their arrest is a testament to the relentless efforts of our operatives,” Danjuma stated. He further commended the officers for their bravery and urged them to continue their rigorous efforts to combat criminal activities in the state.
The police have confirmed that the suspects will face charges in court upon the completion of the ongoing investigations.
