The Imo State Police Command has busted a criminal syndicate allegedly involved in phone theft, burglary, and tampering with tracking devices in Eziobodo, Owerri West Local Government Area.
The operation followed a complaint lodged by a phone dealer whose shop was burgled on July 11, 2025. According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, operatives of the Anti-Vice Unit launched an investigation that led to the arrest of a suspect in possession of four brand-new stolen phones.
Further investigations revealed the involvement of the principal suspect behind the burglary and an accomplice who specialised in altering phone IMEI numbers to prevent tracking.
“All the arrested suspects are currently in custody,” Okoye said, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.
In a separate incident, operatives of Orji Police Station arrested a 26-year-old man, Ernest Nweke, at about 9 p.m. on July 31 at Bishop’s Court Roundabout, Owerri North, following a distress call from concerned residents.
Nweke, a native of Umuoji in Ngor Okpala LGA but residing in the World Bank area of Owerri, was caught with a locally fabricated pistol.
He was reportedly among four suspects who robbed a student, Emmanuel FearGod, at Fountain of Knowledge Hostel.
The suspect confessed to being a member of the Vikings cult group. Based on his confession, police arrested four other suspects — Chamberlain Prince, Akujuobi Godwin, Ugwuelu Joseph, and Frederick Chigozie — who also admitted their involvement in the robbery.
All five are currently undergoing investigation and will be charged to court.
Meanwhile, Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, lauded the swift response of his men and reiterated the Command’s determination to clamp down on criminal activities in the state.
He urged residents to report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station or call the Command’s emergency number: 0803 477 3600.