The Imo State Police Command has arrested two members of the Imo State Vigilante Organization over the alleged assault of a woman and her brother in Okigwe.
The incident came to public attention after a video showing armed men confronting and allegedly assaulting the siblings went viral on social media. The victims were reportedly travelling to Abia State University when the incident occurred.
Following the widespread reaction to the footage, questions were raised about the identity of the men involved and the security organisation they represented.
The Abia State Police Command subsequently clarified that the incident occurred in Okigwe, Imo State, and therefore did not fall under its jurisdiction.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, the Abia Command said preliminary information obtained from the Divisional Police Officer in the area indicated that the men were members of a community vigilante group and were not officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Imo Police Command later confirmed that the individuals involved were members of the Imo State Vigilante Organization and announced the arrest of two suspects.
The suspects, identified as Ejiogu Nchekwube and Caleb Onyebuchi, are being held at the Okigwe Divisional Police Headquarters while investigations continue.
“The individuals, identified as Ejiogu Nchekwube and Caleb Onyebuchi, have been arrested and are currently detained at the Okigwe Divisional Police Headquarters, while investigation into the incident continues,” the Imo Police Command stated.
The Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, assured the public that the Command would uphold professionalism and accountability throughout the investigation.
He said anyone found responsible for misconduct would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law.
Similarly, the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, said personnel under his command were expected to maintain discipline and professionalism while carrying out their duties.
He warned that officers found guilty of misconduct would be subjected to disciplinary measures.
Both commands urged members of the public to verify information before sharing reports of security incidents on social media.
The Abia Command particularly cautioned that unverified information could heighten tension, create confusion and undermine public confidence in security institutions.
Investigations into the alleged assault are ongoing, with the Imo State Police Command expected to provide further updates as the case progresses.
