The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the destruction of a suspected criminal camp located in Unuobasi Forest in Umunneochi Local Government Area as part of ongoing operations to combat crime across the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, said the operation was carried out by operatives of the Command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in collaboration with a local security outfit in Umuobasi.

According to the statement, the operation took place on June 28, 2026, following credible intelligence that led security personnel to the suspected hideout deep within the forest. During the raid, the camp was located and destroyed, disrupting the activities of suspected criminal elements operating in the area.

The Command added that surveillance of the forest and nearby communities is ongoing to prevent criminals from re-establishing operational bases and to maintain security in the area.

Reacting to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, Danladi Isa, assured residents that the state would not serve as a refuge for criminals.

He reaffirmed the Command's commitment to its constitutional mandate of preventing crime and bringing offenders to justice, stressing that security operatives would continue to carry out proactive operations aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts across the state.

The Commissioner also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious individuals, movements and activities within their communities.

He noted that effective policing depends on strong cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public, adding that intelligence from residents remains vital in the fight against crime.

The Police Command further advised members of the public to report security concerns to the nearest police station or through its emergency response lines to strengthen collective efforts toward maintaining peace and security across Abia State.

The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that sustained operations against criminal hideouts will continue throughout the state.