Imo Police Command Deploys VCRU Following Public Alert On Insecurity Within Ihiagwa, Eziobodo Axis

…As CP Bosso assures Imolites of safety, orders manhunt for the miscreants responsible for the attack

Following the security situation in Eziobodo Ihiagwa in Owerri Imo State, Wednesday night, Imo commissioner of police CP Bosso has deployed the VCRU to strengthen security in the area as 9News Nigeria reports.

This response came after several tip off and media alert came concerning the insecurity situation within Ihiagwa, Eziobodo and it’s neighbouring communities.

Over the weekend suspected cultists attacked and kill**d a young man within the river side axis whereby raising tension in the Area. Wednesday night in the same week, suspected herdsmen numbering fifties where shooting sporadically while on bikes within Eziobodo community.

Until the information got to the police, the officers of Imo security organization IMSO were mobilized to commence bush combing while police reinforcement surfaced.

The situation truly fused high tension as many residents could not sleep till Thursday morning. 9News interviewed some eyewitnesses in the area and some residents who ran away for the safety of lives to nearby Nekede and Owerri municipal respectively.

On this situation therefore, Imo police command has issues a public release signed by DSP Okoye Henry, Anipr, Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Command, Owerri., 14th May, 2026 which reads thus:

IMO POLICE COMMAND STRENGTHENS SECURITY IN IHIAGWA, DEPLOYS VCRU FOLLOWING FAILED ABDUCTION ATTEMPT

…as CP Bosso assures Imolites of safety, orders manhunt for the miscreants responsible for the attack

The Imo State Police Command has strengthened security deployment in Ihiagwa and adjoining communities in Owerri West LGA following a failed abduction attempt that occurred on the night of 13th May, 2026, along Umuokwo Ihiagwa/Eziobodo Road.

Preliminary reports indicate that the assailants attempted to abduct a victim but were successfully resisted through the prompt intervention and collaborative efforts of Police operatives, local vigilante groups, and members of the community who mobilized swiftly and in large numbers, thereby frustrating the criminal operation.

During the incident, the victim sustained a gunshot injury and was immediately rushed to a hospital where the victim is currently receiving medical attention.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, psc(+), mnips, has assured Imolites of their safety and ordered the deployment of the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), alongside other tactical and intelligence assets, to the area and its environs to enhance security visibility and ensure the swift arrest of the miscreants responsible for the attack.

The Command further assures residents that the situation is under control, while coordinated intelligence-driven operations are ongoing to track and apprehend all those involved in the attack and adequate security measures have been emplaced to forestall future occurrence.

Members of the public are urged to remain calm and remain vigilant, and report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or via 0803 477 3600 or 09116606669 for prompt action.

The Imo State Police Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to intensify proactive policing across the state.