AfriPulse
From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Imo State Police Command has dismantled an armed robbery syndicate, arrested five suspects, and recovered 450 motorcycles believed to be stolen, a shuttle bus, and over ₦6.4 million in cash.
The breakthrough was announced during a press briefing by the State police spokesperson,Henry Okoye on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Garba Bosso .
According to the Command, the case began on 6th April 2026 at about 0900hrs after Chimeze Christian of Urata, Owerri North LGA, reported that his driver, Paul Ejike Ohaka, failed to return with his Wonder Shuttle bus, registration number KPU 26 XA, after leaving on 5th April.
The driver was later found unconscious and abandoned at Irete along the Onitsha Road axis. He was evacuated to Vadan Hospital, New Owerri, where he is receiving treatment.
Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit led by ACP Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa launched a coordinated investigation. The stolen bus was traced to a workshop in Orlu where it was about to be repainted to conceal its identity. Two suspects, Olagoke Jelili and Godday Ezike, were arrested at the scene.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Okechukwu Prince and Raymond Odinaka, who allegedly confessed to acting on instructions from a fleeing suspect, Osita Chigbo, alias “Barr. Oguta.” Paul Martins Anya, a suspected receiver of stolen vehicles, was also apprehended.
A search of the hideout uncovered 13 motorcycles initially, with follow-up operations bringing the total to 450 suspected stolen motorcycles. Police also recovered ₦6,495,900 in cash, multiple vehicle plate numbers, and criminal charms.
The Command disclosed that the suspects allegedly attempted to bribe operatives with ₦5,000,000, but the offer was rejected in line with its zero-tolerance policy on corruption.
Police said the suspects could not provide proof of ownership for the recovered motorcycles and had allegedly attempted to move them into nearby bush paths to evade detection. Acting on intelligence, operatives intercepted the move, leading to the large-scale recovery.
The CP has however directed that all suspects be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. The Command commended the public for their cooperation and urged continued sharing of timely, credible information.
All recovered exhibits Okoye said are in police custody as investigations continue.
Source: SunNewsOnline | Read the Full Story…
