The Ebonyi State Police Command says it arrested at least 177 suspected criminals for various offenses in October 2024.

The Command noted that four out of the 177 suspects were alleged to be involved in human organ harvesting and ritual killings.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, who disclosed this at a news conference in Abakaliki on Friday, explained that officers and men of the Command arrested a total of 177 suspects – 162 males and 15 females.

He said, “92 suspects among them have been charged to court, while others would be arraigned once investigations are completed.

“On behalf of the Commissioner of Police Ebonyi Command, CP Anthonia Uche-Anya, I want to warmly welcome you to this press conference

“I am here to update you on the Command’s achievements within October 2024 and our relentless efforts to combat crimes and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for socio-economic growth in the State.

“The command has employed strategic steps through increased stakeholder engagement to help bring crimes to the barest minimum. Through this approach, we have been able to reduce the incidences of violent crimes, while operatives of the command are not relenting in our efforts to make the state safe for all.”

On the alleged organ harvesting and ritual killings, the Command’s spokesman said that on October 11, Mrs Blessing Chikezie reported to the Command concerning her missing husband, Mr Idenyi Chikezie, who left home on September 9 for a business trip to Lagos.

Some other suspects were arrested for kidnappings, murder, robbery and unlawful possession of firearms.