In response to the recent increase in reported cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and criminal activities in and around the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), the state police command and the military have launched joint operations to apprehend the criminals in the areas of Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze, and other host communities.

This information was shared in a statement released yesterday by Henry Okoye, the spokesperson of the state police command. As a result, the FUTO authorities have issued a movement advisory to advise students to be cautious.

Criminals have reportedly been operating freely, kidnapping victims and taking them to forests near the institution, where they are either killed or held for large ransoms.

Okoye said: “The Imo State Police Command, in close collaboration with the military, has launched a specialised operation to dismantle kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent criminal syndicates that have been terrorising residents in the Obinze, Ihiagwa, Avu, and Federal University of Technology (FUTO) axis in Owerri and other areas in the state.

“This joint effort underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities. The operation will leverage the combined expertise and resources of both agencies to bring those responsible for these criminal acts to justice.

“Recent reports of increased kidnapping incidents in these areas have raised significant concern among residents and students. In response, the Imo State Police Command has deployed a team of highly trained personnel to conduct focused operations aimed at neutralising the threat posed by these criminal elements. Our objective is to enhance peace and security in the state and guarantee that educational institutions, including FUTO, remain safe environments for learning.”

He added: “Students are directed to avoid unnecessary movements out of/into the university between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to avoid falling victim to the activities of these hoodlums. Students are also enjoined to be vigilant and inform their parents, guardians, or any significant other of their movements.”