Police Arrest 18 Alleged IPOB Members in Connection with Killing of Two Officers in Imo State

The Imo State Police Command has taken into custody 18 individuals believed to be associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in connection with the tragic killing of two officers at Ahiara junction in Ahiazu-Mbaise LGA.

The unfortunate incident unfolded on Monday when two police officers, who had halted to refuel their vehicles at BOEK Petroleum station, became victims of a sudden and violent attack by assailants clad in military camouflage. The attackers, suspected to be affiliated with IPOB, descended on the officers in three vehicles, discharging their firearms indiscriminately.

According to Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the police command, the fallen officers have been identified as the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ahiazu-Mbaise and an inspector.

“The police operatives fought gallantly, but unfortunately, the DPO and an inspector of police paid the supreme price in the gun duel that ensued, while two police officers survived the attack,” Okoye reported.

He further disclosed that a prompt response was initiated by police operatives led by CP Aboki Danjuma, who engaged in a confidence-building patrol in Ahaizu Mbaise. The hot pursuit forced the assailants, who sustained various gunshot injuries, to abandon operational motorcycles as they fled the scene. Military reinforcement, led by the Brigade Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, joined the operation, intensifying the ongoing combing of the area.

“Meanwhile, a total of 18 suspects have been arrested and are currently undergoing investigation,” Okoye added, indicating a significant breakthrough in the efforts to address this distressing incident.