The Imo State Police Command says it has strengthened security operations in Ihiagwa, Eziobodo and nearby communities in Owerri West Local Government Area after a failed abduction attempt left one person injured.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, said the incident occurred on Wednesday night along the Umuokwo Ihiagwa/Eziobodo Road when suspected gunmen allegedly tried to abduct a resident.
According to the statement, the attackers failed after police operatives, local vigilante groups and residents swiftly mobilised to resist them.
The command said the victim sustained a gunshot wound during the attack and was immediately taken to hospital for treatment.
“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 mobilised swiftly and in large numbers, thereby frustrating the criminal operation,” the statement said.
Following the incident, Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso ordered the deployment of the newly created Violent Crime Response Unit alongside tactical and intelligence teams to reinforce security in the affected communities.
The police commissioner also directed security operatives to launch a manhunt for the suspects and assured residents that coordinated intelligence-led operations were ongoing to arrest those responsible.
The command added that security had been tightened across the area to prevent further attacks and urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and report suspicious activities through designated emergency channels.
Police authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding lives and property while sustaining proactive security operations across Imo State.