NATIONAL POLICE DAY: ABIA POLICE DISBURSE ₦11.9 MILLION TO FAMILIES OF FALLEN OFFICERS, RECORD 226 ARRESTS, DISMANTLE CRIMINAL NETWORKS, AND INTENSIFY CRACKDOWN ON CULTISM, CHILD TRAFFICKING, AND ARMED ROBBERY

The Abia State Police Command has presented welfare cheques totaling over ₦11.9 million to the families of fallen officers, while also highlighting significant achievements in the fight against crime across the state, in what authorities describe as a renewed push toward enhanced security and community trust.

Addressing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Umuahia on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, stated that the event was in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and formed part of activities marking National Police Day.

The Commissioner disclosed that a total of eleven Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare cheques, amounting to ₦11,960,204.88, were presented to the families of police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“These cheques are meant to provide support to the families of our fallen heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our nation,” he said.

Beyond the welfare initiative, the Command painted a picture of intensified law enforcement operations across Abia State, with remarkable gains recorded between January 2026 and date. Within the period under review, the Command handled 142 criminal cases, leading to the arrest of 226 suspects. Many of these cases have been investigated, charged to court, and are currently at various stages of prosecution, with suspects remanded in correctional facilities.

On the issue of cultism, the Commissioner reported that 13 cult-related cases had been handled, resulting in the arrest of 23 suspects. All suspects have been arraigned and remanded, with 32 firearms recovered during the operations. He also noted that five additional cult-related cases are currently under investigation.

The Police Commissioner emphasized that the Command’s intelligence-driven operations have led to the rescue of trafficked and stolen children, the recovery of 46 firearms of various types, and 16 rounds of ammunition. He also stated that several criminal networks operating within the state have been dismantled.

“These ongoing efforts have significantly reduced crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, defilement, rape, child trafficking, unlawful possession of firearms, theft, burglary, and advance fee fraud,” he said.

Further strengthening its operational successes, the Command confirmed the recovery of stolen vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles, alongside the rescue of kidnapped victims. Security operatives also seized bags containing substances suspected to be cannabis sativa and other illicit drugs during various operations.

Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, the Commissioner assured residents that proactive policing strategies would continue to ensure a safe and secure environment for socio-economic activities to thrive. He urged the public to support the Police by providing credible information that would aid ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements, while reiterating the Command’s dedication to professionalism and service in line with global policing standards.

In an emotional response, Miss Nwaogu Grace Chidera, speaking on behalf of the families of fallen officers, expressed deep appreciation for the welfare support extended by the Nigeria Police Force.

“This gesture means a great deal to our family as it provides us with something to lean on despite the loss of my late mother, Mrs. Florence.

“We thank the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the officers of the Abia State Command for their care, support, and commitment, especially during this time of grief. The assistance has shown compassion and responsibility toward the families of deceased officers,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Command also announced a string of high-profile arrests and breakthroughs recorded through intelligence-led operations across the state, as detailed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka.

Operatives of the Serious Crime Investigation Squad (SCISSORS) apprehended two suspects, Isaac Emeahara (36) and Michael John (58), on March 19, 2026. The duo was reportedly conducting illegal stop-and-search operations aimed at robbing and extorting motorists. Recovered from them were two cut-to-size double-barrel guns, two single-barrel guns, and two live cartridges. They have since been charged to court and remanded.

In a separate operation, a 26-year-old suspect, Ogwo PraiseGod Onodiugo, was arrested in Isuochi while attempting to rob a passerby, with a revolver pistol, ammunition, and a mobile phone recovered from him.

A coordinated raid by police operatives from Igbere, Bende, and Uzuakoli divisions led to the arrest of four suspects at a criminal hideout in Isieke Ugwueke. Items recovered include expended cartridges, locally made gunpowder, tramadol, and substances suspected to be hard drugs.

The Command also recorded a disturbing case involving a 27-year-old suspect, Ebere Christian Sunday, arrested for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old girl alongside two accomplices who are currently at large. The victim was reportedly threatened with a knife, while the suspect has confessed, with efforts ongoing to apprehend the fleeing accomplices.

In a breakthrough involving child theft, police arrested Chizuruoke Monday (28) and Onyekachi Onyema (29) over the alleged theft of a two-week-old baby in 2020. Investigations are ongoing to locate the child and arrest other individuals connected to the case.

The Command further confirmed multiple arrests linked to murder cases. Victor Okoro (32) was arrested for the alleged killing of his girlfriend, who later died in hospital, while Emmanuel Okoro Kanu (52) was apprehended following a fatal altercation that led to the death of a man in Arochukwu.

In another incident, a vigilante member and an accomplice were arrested after a fatal shooting during a confrontation, with a pump-action gun and cartridges recovered.

Police also arrested suspects involved in housebreaking and theft, recovering a dismantled motorcycle and other stolen items. In a related operation, a suspect connected to cult-related violence was apprehended with a locally made pistol.

In a major security response, fourteen suspects armed with machetes were arrested for attacking a student lodge, injuring occupants, and stealing mobile phones. Police confirmed that normalcy has since been restored in the affected area.

Additionally, a stolen tricycle was recovered in Umuahia after being tracked to an uncompleted building, with investigations ongoing to apprehend those responsible.

Reiterating its resolve to safeguard lives and property, the Abia State Police Command emphasized the importance of community collaboration in sustaining peace and security. Residents were urged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, and 08079210006.

The Command concluded with a firm assurance of professionalism, vigilance, and unwavering dedication in the discharge of its duties, as it continues to intensi fy efforts to rid Abia State of criminal elements.