The suspect, identified as Chigozirim Elem, is from Amasiri in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, but resides in Ugwunchara
By Emeka Uche
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Published on July 15, 2026
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2 min read
The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly vandalising government property and stealing iron doors from unallocated shops at the Ubani Government Market in Umuahia.
The suspect, identified as Chigozirim Elem, is from Amasiri in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State but resides in Ugwunchara, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
According to a press release issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, the arrest followed a sustained effort by the command to combat crime and protect public infrastructure across the state.
The police said operatives of the Mike Okiro Divisional Police Headquarters, acting on credible intelligence and in collaboration with members of the community vigilante, apprehended the suspect on July 11, 2026.
Investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly gained unlawful access to four unallocated shops at the Ubani Government Market, where he maliciously damaged and vandalised the premises before removing four double iron doors and one single iron door.
The command disclosed that the suspect attempted to escape upon sighting security operatives but was swiftly arrested.
Police also confirmed the recovery of all the stolen items, comprising four double doors and one single iron door.
According to the statement, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
“The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” the statement added.
The Abia State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public assets and maintaining law and order across the state.
The command urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities or security concerns to the nearest police station or through its emergency hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, and 08079210006.
DSP Chinaka reiterated that effective collaboration between the police and the public remains vital in tackling crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property throughout Abia State.
