Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Abia State Police Command has arrested four suspected criminal gang members in two separate intelligence-led operations, recovering a cache of firearms, ammunition, and vandalised government property, according to a press release issued on Friday, 10 July 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka. The arrests were carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and the Command's anti-crime unit, Operation Crush, in collaboration with other security agencies.
In the first operation, which took place on 7 July 2026, police operatives acting on actionable intelligence stormed a location in the Ubakala axis where a suspected criminal gang numbering about 50 had gathered for cult activities. Upon arrival, the operatives arrested three suspects identified as Obioma Nmeribe, male, 22; Emmanuel Lekwechi, male, 25; and Ikemefulla ThankGod Amadi, male, 25. Items recovered from the suspects include one Beretta pistol with eight rounds of ammunition, one locally made pistol, two live cartridges, one live ammunition, two black berets, one cutlass, and one digger.
In a separate operation on 6 July 2026, the police, in collaboration with sister security agencies under Operation Crush, apprehended Bright Nnabugu, male, 31, of Umuobasi, Ugunabor LGA. The suspect was allegedly involved in stealing and vandalising government properties. Items recovered from him include one locally made single-barrel long gun, one expended cartridge, and one cutter with high-tension wire, suggesting his involvement in the theft and vandalism of public infrastructure.
The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, commended the operatives for their prompt response and professionalism. He reiterated the Command's commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements and urged members of the public to continue collaborating with the police by reporting any security concerns to the nearest police station or through the Command's emergency hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, and 08079210006.
The suspects are currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing to determine their individual culpability. They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. The Command reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in Abia State, warning that criminal elements would have no hiding place in the state.
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