Imo Police crackdown exposes Oguta killings, arrests 15 suspects and uncovers shallow graves in forest hideout.
The Imo State Police Command has arrested 15 suspects linked to a violent criminal network operating in Oguta Local Government Area.
The arrests followed intelligence-driven operations carried out in early February 2026, particularly around Orsuobodo community.
Police say the suspects are connected to armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, cult-related crimes and child trafficking.
Authorities also allege links to the proscribed group Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network.
The operation was conducted under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso, who assumed duty in Imo State in early February 2026.
During a press briefing at the command headquarters in Owerri, CP Bosso described the arrests as a major step toward restoring public safety.
Police identified one of the key suspects as 31-year-old Chinonso Ugochukwu, also known as Bob Adam. He was arrested alongside four others in Orsuobodo.
According to police, the group allegedly carried out multiple kidnappings and killings in the Oguta axis under the cover of IPOB and ESN activities.
Investigators said Ugochukwu confessed during interrogation and later led officers to a forest location in Orsuobodo.
At the site, operatives reportedly uncovered shallow graves containing several bodies.
Among those believed to have been exhumed are:
- Pastor Chima Ogbonna, a local cleric
- Jeremiah Ochunwa
- Ugochi Nwabueze
Police say the victims were allegedly abducted, killed and buried in the forest.
The area has been described by investigators as a secret disposal ground used by the group.
Security operatives also recovered weapons and materials from the suspects, including:
- One LAR rifle
- Three AK-47 rifles
- Three pump-action guns
- Thirty live cartridges
- Locally made explosives
Charms and insignia linked to IPOB/ESN
Authorities believe the syndicate combined kidnapping-for-ransom operations with separatist-linked violence, creating fear across the Oguta area.
All suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. The police have urged residents to provide credible information that may support further arrests and help prevent future attacks.
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