Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Unit (VCRU) have arrested four suspected terrorists during a raid on a hideout in Eziudo, Ezinihite Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
During the operation, the police recovered three pump-action guns, 30 live cartridges, Biafra flags, military and police uniforms, recruitment forms, charms, and photographs of purported leaders of the group.
According to the police daily report obtained by The WHISTLER on Sunday, the suspects were apprehended during a targeted operation against an alleged terrorist cell operating in the state.
The report noted that the suspects confessed during interrogation to recruiting new members and participating in multiple terrorist attacks across Imo State.
The Force said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the network, adding that efforts have been intensified to dismantle the group’s operational structure and prevent further attacks.
In a separate operation, the Nigeria Police Force also arrested five suspected cultists at Bishop’s Court in Owerri, the Imo State capital, recovering firearms, ammunition and other items allegedly linked to cult activities.
Among those arrested was 23-year-old Opara Ikechi, alongside four other suspects.
Police operatives recovered four firearms, including locally fabricated pistols, 31 rounds of live ammunition, a dagger and a suspected confraternity scarf.
According to the police, the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to curb cult-related violence and other criminal activities in the state.
The Force said the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Owerri has commenced investigations to determine the suspects’ involvement in cult-related crimes and identify other members of the group.
The police added that the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.