The Abia State Police Command says it arrested 809 suspects for various criminal offences between January and December 2025, following 438 reported cases across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, disclosed this on Friday while briefing journalists at the command headquarters in Umuahia. He said the arrests were the result of sustained intelligence-led operations and strategic policing initiatives aimed at reducing crime and enhancing public safety.
According to Isa, more than 200 of the arrested suspects have been successfully prosecuted within the period, with courts handing down various prison sentences. He noted that these efforts have contributed significantly to the relative peace currently being enjoyed in the state.
“For the period under review, we carried out several operational strategies that yielded positive results,” Isa said. “The consequence is a noticeable reduction in crime and improved security across Abia State.”
The police commissioner revealed that operatives recovered 88 firearms of different calibres, including AK-47 rifles, pistols and other weapons, as well as 435 rounds of ammunition during various operations.
He further disclosed that 33 trafficked children were rescued from different parts of the country, while more than 30 cases of defilement were recorded and successfully prosecuted. Isa added that suspects involved in crimes against women and children were brought to justice, stressing the command’s zero-tolerance stance on such offences.
Isa also said the command neutralised several non-state actors during armed encounters, leading to additional recoveries of weapons and ammunition.
On security arrangements for the festive season, the commissioner said the command activated its Christmas and New Year operation order on December 15. He explained that the initiative involves intensified patrols, stop-and-search operations and increased surveillance at strategic locations across the state.
“There is no hiding place for criminals in Abia State,” Isa said. “We are determined to bring crime to the barest minimum. Criminals and non-state actors are advised to drop their arms and embrace peace for the sake of security and economic development.”
The commissioner confirmed that the command has complied with the presidential directive on the withdrawal of police personnel from Very Important Persons (VIPs), noting that the order was conveyed through the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to improve effective and people-focused policing.
Isa commended Governor Alex Otti for his support, particularly in the areas of logistics, provision of operational vehicles and improved welfare for officers. He said the achievements recorded by the command were largely made possible through the assistance of the state government.
He, however, appealed for additional vehicles and modern equipment to further strengthen the command’s capacity to combat crime and maintain security across Abia State.
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