Imo State Police Command Arrests 18 Suspected IPOB/ESN Members in DPO Killing
In a significant breakthrough, the Imo State Police Command has apprehended 18 individuals suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN.
This development is linked to the tragic incident involving the killing of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Ahiazu Mbaise and an Inspector of Police at BOEK Petroleum Filling Station, Ahiara Junction, in Ahaizu, Mbaise LGA of Imo State.
According to a statement from police spokesman Henry Okoye, the policemen were refueling their operational vehicle at the mentioned filling station when a group of hoodlums, suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN, attacked them.
Clad in military camouflage and black and red regalia, the assailants, armed with three vehicles and motorcycles, unleashed gunfire on the officers.
In the ensuing gun battle, the DPO and an Inspector of Police tragically lost their lives, while two police officers managed to survive the attack.
Swift action was taken by police operatives led by CP Aboki Danjuma, who engaged in a pursuit of the assailants.
The pursuit resulted in the hoodlums fleeing the scene, leaving behind operational motorcycles and sustaining various gunshot injuries.
The Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with the military, led by the Brigade Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, is conducting an intensive combing operation in the area.
As part of the ongoing investigation, a total of 18 suspects have been arrested.
The statement reinforces the commitment of the Imo State Police Command to work closely with other security agencies to ensure the safety of the region.
Citizens, especially those in Ahaizu Mbaise, are encouraged to report any individuals observed with or seeking treatment for gunshot injuries in their vicinity through emergency lines: 08034773600 and 08098880197.
The quest for justice is underway as law enforcement strives to hold the perpetrators accountable for this dastardly act.
Source: Daily Post
