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

The raid, carried out In the early hours of July 13, 2026, at Works Layout, Owerri, followed credible intelligence supplied by vigilant residents.

Police said operatives from the Orji Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), in collaboration with military personnel and local vigilantes, stormed the area and arrested 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 fled on sighting the approaching security team.

According to the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were planning to launch robbery attacks on unsuspecting residents before the operation was thwarted. A locally fabricated pistol, suspected to have been intended for the planned operation, was recovered from the scene.

The arrested suspect is currently in police custody, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect and other members of the alleged criminal gang.

Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, praised the officers’ professionalism and the support from the military, local vigilante groups, and residents, whose timely intelligence made the operation successful.

“The success of this operation underscores the importance of intelligence sharing and collaboration between security agencies and the public,” the commissioner said.

Bosso directed investigators to expedite the probe and ensure that everyone connected with the alleged criminal plot is Identified and brought to justice.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven policing and sustained collaboration with other security agencies to rid Imo State of criminal elements. It also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies to strengthen the fight against crime. (The Nation)