Ebonyi: Police arrest 131 suspects, recover arms

The Ebonyi State Police Command has provided an update on its achievements within the month of July and early August 2025, highlighting sustained efforts in combating crime and maintaining a safe environment for socio-economic growth in Ebonyi State.
The Command said Ebonyi State, being predominantly agrarian, often experiences recurring crises over land and boundary disputes during the farming season, arising from the struggle for arable land.
In addressing these challenges, the Command said it has deployed early warning mechanisms to promptly detect and contain brewing disputes.
This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, Anthonia Uche- Anya and made available to journalists in Abakiliki.
“We have also adopted a non-kinetic approach, engaging robustly with relevant stakeholders to ensure that differences are settled through civil dialogue rather than violence,” the CP said, adding that the Command would continue to closely monitor flashpoints with land and boundary issues.
The Command further stated that between July and mid-August 2025, a total of 131 suspects (120 males and 11 females) were arrested for various offences.
Out of the total arrests, 52 suspects have already been charged to court, while investigations are ongoing for the others who will soon be arraigned.
The Command said it recovered six vehicles, 15 assorted firearms, and 50 rounds of ammunition of various calibres, while also dislodging several criminal hideouts across the state.
According to the CP, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, acting on credible intelligence, stormed the hideout of hoodlums terrorising Umuogodo-Akpu Ngbo, Ohaukwu LGA. The operation led to the arrest of Icha Chidiebere, and the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one Dakota vehicle, and a Lexus 330 SUV without registration number.
In the same vein, operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad trailed a syndicate that specialised in robbing residents of Onueke of their motorcycles at gunpoint. This led to the arrest of Nwali Sunday and the recovery of one KC Sanyang motorcycle.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
Parts of the statement read, “Following intelligence reports, operatives of Ikwo Division stormed an uncompleted building where two kidnapped students were being held.
“The victims were rescued unhurt, while three suspects- James Nweke, Oliver Nwali, and Nwojiji Onyebuchi- were arrested. The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
“The Command’s proactive engagement with stakeholders helped prevent the Ihie/Ezza Ekembe crisis from escalating.
“On 14\08\2025, one Agboti Kingsley, hired as part of mercenaries to instigate crisis in Ekembe community, was arrested and is currently assisting the police with useful information.
“Following the Ekoli Edda crisis which led to the murder of one Udu Nnachi on 09/07/2025. Painstaking investigation by operatives of the command attached to SWAT led to the arrest of the following persons; Amarachi Ude, Idika Ama Okoro, Sunday Ama Olughu, suspects will be arraigned upon conclusion of investigation.
“I wish to sincerely appreciate the good people of Ebonyi State for their continuous support and cooperation with the police. I assure you that under my leadership, the Command remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property, and to sustain the peace and security of the state.”