Why we detained Obinna Orji, kidnapping suspect- Imo police

DDM NEWS

The Imo State Police Command has provided reasons for detaining Obinna Orji, a 43-year-old businessman, for over eight months.

According to the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Okoye Henry, Orji is a key suspect in multiple high-profile cases of kidnapping and armed robbery

Orji is accused of being involved in the kidnapping of Chief Ikenna Okafor on November 15, 2024, where the victim was dispossessed of his Toyota Highlander SUV, a gold necklace, and other valuables worth over ₦20 million. A ransom of ₦10 million was paid.

The police claim Orji is linked to a criminal syndicate involved in trafficking stolen vehicles acquired through violent crimes.

Orji is an ex-convict, having been previously remanded at the Okigwe Correctional Centre from 2017 to 2019 over conspiracy and armed robbery charges .

The investigation is complex, spanning multiple states and involving several suspects, which has necessitated Orji’s continued detention.

The police stated that Orji’s detention is related to capital offenses for which bail cannot be granted by the police.

The police assured that Orji will be arraigned in court at the earliest possible time, and the Command will follow due process and ensure that justice is served.

There are concerns about human rights abuses, with some alleging that the Officer in Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, CSP Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa, has a history of disregarding court orders and flouting the law.

The Police Complaints Response Unit (CRU) had promised to investigate the matter, but there was no development as of press time.

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