Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Imo State Police Command have uncovered hideouts belonging to suspected kidnappers in Okuku and Ndegwu communities of Owerri West Local Council, where they recovered a decomposing body believed to be that of a lawyer abducted in October.
According to a statement released early Friday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, the operation was conducted on November 5 in collaboration with local vigilante groups as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal networks in the state.
“On November 5, 2025, operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, working closely with vigilantes, successfully dislodged kidnappers’ hideouts in Okuku and Ndegwu communities, both in Owerri West LGA,” the statement read.
Okoye revealed that the intelligence-led operation, coordinated by ACP Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa, led to the discovery of the body inside an abandoned livestock farm deep within the Okuku–Agwa forest.
“The scene was secured and the remains were evacuated to the morgue for forensic examination,” Okoye said, adding that samples had been collected by the Forensic Unit for DNA testing to confirm whether the corpse was that of Barrister Jeffery Ucheagwu, who was kidnapped on October 14, 2025, at Site and Services, Umuguma, Owerri West.
No arrests were made during the raid as the suspects had fled before the arrival of the operatives.
Okoye further disclosed that the area had been placed under 24-hour surveillance to prevent the criminals from regrouping and to facilitate further intelligence gathering on their activities.
“The dislodged hideouts remain under close watch as the Command intensifies efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and, if possible, rescue the victim alive,” he added.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, commended the operatives for their professionalism and bravery, reaffirming the Command’s determination to dismantle kidnapping networks across the state.
Danjuma urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with the Police, and provide credible and timely information that could assist ongoing investigations.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Imo State,” Okoye quoted the CP as saying.
