The Imo State Police Command has officially dismissed three of its personnel following their direct involvement in a high-profile case of armed robbery, kidnapping, and car theft in Owerri. The dismissal, announced by State Commissioner of Police CP Audu Bosso, underscores a widening crackdown on “rogue elements” within the force.
The dismissed officers—identified as Sgt. Ekwueme Gift, Sgt. Eto Ikechukwu, and Cpl. Divine Ogwuaru—were stripped of their ranks following an internal “Orderly Room Trial.” The proceedings found them guilty of multiple counts of felony and gross misconduct.
The Midnight Heist
The incident unfolded on February 8, 2026, along the busy Mbaise Road in Owerri. According to police reports, the trio, alongside a civilian accomplice named Elias Chukwu, intercepted residents at gunpoint. During the operation, the suspects allegedly kidnapped victims and made away with a luxury vehicle.
Investigations revealed a calculated attempt to bypass police hierarchy:
- Impersonation: The officers were not officially on duty. They falsely identified themselves as members of the elite Tiger Base Unit to intimidate their victims and bypass local checkpoints.
- The Pursuit: The stolen vehicle was intercepted by a rapid response team on the Owerri-Onitsha Road as the suspects were allegedly fleeing to dispose of the car in a neighboring state.
”No More Business as Usual”
CP Audu Bosso stated that the officers’ actions violated Paragraph E (i) and (iii) of the First Schedule of the Police Act, alongside Regulation 370.
”It will no longer be business as usual for officers who misbehave in this command,” Bosso declared. “Any officer found guilty of criminal activity will face the full force of the law, regardless of their rank.”
The Command’s Legal Department has been instructed to fast-track the prosecution of the dismissed officers and their civilian driver to ensure they face criminal trial in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Restoring Public Trust
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, emphasized that the swift dismissal reflects the Command’s commitment to transparency. He urged the public to utilize the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) to report any further instances of extortion or misconduct.
Residents are encouraged to contact the Command via the dedicated desk line: 08148024755.
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