Police Foil Suspected Robbery Plot in Owerri, Arrest One, Recover Locally Made Pistol

The Imo State Police Command has foiled a suspected armed robbery operation in Owerri, arresting one suspect and recovering a locally fabricated pistol during an intelligence-led security operation.

The operation was carried out in the early hours of July 13, 2026, at Works Layout, Owerri, following credible information provided by residents of the area.

According to the police, operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Orji Division, working alongside military personnel and local vigilante members, conducted a coordinated raid that led to the arrest of one Onyegbulam Lucky Boy, a native of Umunoha in Mbaitoli Local Government Area who resides in Umuodu, Mbieri.

His alleged accomplice, identified simply as Chijioke, reportedly escaped after sighting the security team.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly preparing to carry out robbery attacks on unsuspecting residents before the operation was disrupted. Security operatives recovered a locally fabricated pistol believed to have been intended for the planned crime.

The arrested suspect remains in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and other members of the suspected criminal gang.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, commended the professionalism of the operatives involved in the operation. He also praised the support of military personnel, local vigilante groups, and residents whose timely information contributed to the success of the raid.

The police commissioner directed that investigations be concluded without delay and that all individuals connected to the alleged criminal plot be brought to justice.

The command reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations and strengthening collaboration with other security stakeholders across the state. It also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies to aid efforts in combating crime.