By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Abia State Police Command has arrested Chigozirim Elem, 25, for allegedly vandalising government property and stealing iron doors from four unallocated shops at Ubani Government Market in Umuahia. The arrest followed actionable intelligence on July 11, 2026, with police officers and community vigilantes working together to apprehend the suspect and recover the stolen items.
Police Arrest Suspect During Operation
The Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa.
She identified the suspect as Chigozirim Elem, an indigene of Amasiri, Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, who currently resides in Ugwunchara, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
According to Chinaka, police operatives from the Mike Okiro Divisional Police Headquarters acted on credible intelligence and partnered with the local community vigilante during the operation.
Suspect Allegedly Broke Into Government Shops
Chinaka said the suspect unlawfully entered four unallocated shops at the Ubani Government Market. He allegedly damaged the structures before removing four double iron doors and one single iron door.
She explained that the suspect attempted to escape after spotting security personnel. However, officers quickly pursued and arrested him.
The police also recovered all the stolen iron doors during the operation.
Investigation Underway
Chinaka said the police have transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.
She added that the command would arraign the suspect in court after completing investigations.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Public Safety
The Abia State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting public infrastructure and maintaining law and order across the state.
The command also urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and criminal activities to the nearest police station.
