The suspected kidnapper of Sabinus Ugwuebu, a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) worker, and former Eze Imo, HRH Eze Samuel Ohiri, has been caught by the Imo State Police Command, marking a huge breakthrough. The arrest took place as part of a coordinated military operation that was aimed at what was thought to be an IPOB (Indigenous People of Biafra) stronghold, as well as the terrorist Eastern Security Network (ESN).

According to Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Imo State Command, the operation took place at Ihite Owerre in Orlu Local Government Area of the state. The security forces engaged in a gun duel with suspected IPOB/ESN militants at their camp around 3:30 am on January 9.

“The arrested suspect, believed to be a member of the ESN terrorist group, may lead to where the kidnapped victims are,” Okoye stated.

During the search of the camp, law enforcement officers recovered road safety uniforms belonging to the kidnapped FRSC officer, Sabinus Ugwuebu. Additionally, the police discovered one pump-action gun, two double-barrel guns, two single-barrel guns, 54 rounds of live cartridges, military uniforms, six motorcycles, and a box containing locally made explosives.

Okoye emphasized that a coordinated investigative effort is underway to apprehend any fleeing suspects and, most importantly, to potentially rescue the kidnapped victims.

The successful operation represents a significant step forward in addressing the security challenges in the region, with law enforcement agencies actively pursuing those responsible for criminal activities, including abductions and other acts of violence. The Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, continues its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents in the state.