Elias Igboayaka Dikeigbo, a former Special Adviser on Motor parks in the Orlu zone to Emeka Ihedioha, the immediate past Governor of Imo State, has been arrested for his alleged involvement in kidnapping and armed robbery activities.
According to Sahara Reporters, the arrest, which took place in the Orlu area of the state, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised questions about the extent of criminal activities associated with individuals holding positions of power.
SaharaReporters has learned that Elias was apprehended by the Imo State command of the Nigeria Police Force on Saturday following the confessions made by some of his gang members who were previously arrested by local vigilantes in his Umuna community.
These gang members reportedly identified Elias as their leader, shedding light on his alleged involvement in orchestrating criminal operations within the region.
"Elias who serves as the Community Youth leader of his town has been named in several criminal activities in Orlu and its environs, and has been on the police wanted list over a series of armed robbery operations,” a source said.
Elias, a figure who once held a position of influence as a Special Adviser, now stands accused of presiding over a network of individuals involved in kidnapping and armed robbery.
Reports suggest that he is the owner of properties suspected to have been acquired through the proceeds of illegal and criminal activities, painting a grim picture of corruption and criminality within the corridors of power.
"People are jubilating and appreciating both the vigilantes and the police for a job well done, even as they appealed to the authorities not to release the suspect back to society as has been the case in his several arrests in the past," the source added.
The arrest of Elias has prompted a wave of scrutiny and condemnation, as the public grapples with the revelation of alleged criminal activities tied to someone who once held a position of trust and responsibility within the government.
The news of his arrest has sparked outrage and disbelief among residents of Imo State, who are demanding transparency and accountability in the investigation of individuals linked to criminal acts.
Confirming the arrest, Mr. Henry Okoye, the Public Relations Officer of the state police command, acknowledged that Elias was in custody and that his case had been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation.
The authorities are working diligently to probe the allegations against Elias and unravel the extent of his involvement in criminal enterprises that have plagued the region.
"He has been transferred to Anti-Kidnapping Unit and further investigation has been initiated.
More suspects have been arrested in connection with the case and we are currently carrying out comprehensive investigation.
"The arrest is part of the command's commitment to clean the state from all criminal elements," he said.