The growing insecurity in Imo State has taken a worrisome turn with the abduction of a newly-wed couple and four others in Obowo Local Government Area. This incident comes just days after the successful rescue of another kidnapped couple and several others in the state, raising concerns over the increasing rate of abductions.
According to reports, the newly-wed couple, who had just finished their marriage ceremony, were kidnapped alongside family members while exchanging pleasantries with relatives. The gunmen, arriving in a Lexus car, intercepted the couple and their family, forcing them into a Sienna car before speeding off.
The alarming frequency of such incidents has sparked fear among residents, particularly as the festive “ember months” approach. Imo State has witnessed a series of kidnapping incidents, and the latest abduction has heightened tensions across the state.
In a positive development, the Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in collaboration with military personnel, successfully dismantled a suspected IPOB/ESN kidnapping syndicate in Ezioha, Mbaitoli Local Government Area on October 4, 2024. During the operation, the suspects opened fire but were swiftly repelled by security forces, leading to the neutralization of some while others fled into the surrounding bush with injuries.
The operation also led to the recovery of arms, including a pump-action gun, 10 live cartridges, four expended cartridges, explosives, and other criminal materials. The security forces rescued four individuals abducted along Orlu Road on September 29, 2024. Among the rescued victims were Eze Okoro of Orlu LGA, Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Nwosu from Owerri West LGA, and Bartholomew, a resident from Benue State.
Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, and Brigadier General Usman Lawal of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, commended the bravery of the operatives and urged them to maintain their momentum in the fight against crime. They reassured the public that efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects were ongoing and called for vigilance and cooperation from residents.
