The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the alleged criminal activities of a violent gang operating in Atta, Njaba Local Government Area.
The directive follows a petition filed on January 29, 2026, by J. U. Ijeoma & Associates, which accused Chibuike Duru, also known as Nwangbenta, and his associates of serial killings and other grave crimes in the Atta-Njaba axis.
In a communication dated February 5, 2026, ACP Bukola Y. Kuti, Principal Staff Officer II to the IGP, emphasized that the investigation should follow established police guidelines. The letter referenced previous police directives to ensure proper handling of the matter.
The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) welcomed the IGP’s intervention, urging the Imo State Police Command to conduct a thorough and uncompromised investigation. In a statement by its Head, Emeka Umeagbalasi, Intersociety described the gang as heavily armed, terrorizing Umuejike in Egwedu Autonomous Community, and engaging in serious offenses including serial murders, abductions, unlawful detentions, torture, and mutilations.
The group is also accused of property destruction, illegal possession of firearms such as AK-47 rifles, intimidation, and extortion of residents, market women, and local politicians. Intersociety further alleged that the gang falsely claims affiliation with “unknown gunmen,” the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) to cover their operations.
Recalling its previous collaboration with security forces in Anambra State that led to the dismantling of a similar gang in Uli, Intersociety highlighted that repeated complaints from residents prompted the petition by Barrister Uche Justus Ijeoma.
The organisation called on the Imo State Police to fully implement the IGP’s directive, warning against compromise. It demanded that the gang’s hideouts be dismantled, victims rescued, properties recovered, and all perpetrators, including alleged sponsors, be arrested and prosecuted for multiple murders and related crimes.
