By Efe Onodjae.
The Anti-Kidnapping Unit, popularly known as Tiger Base in Imo State, which has been at the center of criticism by some human rights activists and disgruntled individuals, is proving to be a quiet revolution in the state.
This revolution is unfolding in a region long haunted by the shadows of criminal syndicates, banditry, and public mistrust in law enforcement. Since assuming command of the base, CSP Ola Odeyeyiwa and his team have defied the cynics with a resolute campaign to clamp down on organized crime and rebuild public confidence.
Contrary to skepticism and allegations of human rights abuses previously leveled against the unit, they have delivered a string of operational successes that are not only remarkable but also deeply reassuring to the people of Imo State.
Crushing Kidnap Syndicates and Saving Lives
One of the unit’s standout moments came on June 21, 2025, following the abduction of Mr. Anayo Iwuoha from his Akabo residence in Ikeduru Local Government Area. Acting on sophisticated intelligence, operatives tracked the kidnappers to their hideout in Ochii Ogwa, Mbaitolu LGA. In a daring raid, they rescued the victim unharmed and arrested two notorious kingpins—Uche Nwachukwu and Chinonso Ozuruigbo—recovering an arsenal of weapons including a pump-action gun, live cartridges, an improvised explosive device, and even the chains used to restrain the victim.
This operation was more than just a rescue; it was a public declaration that kidnappers will find no haven in Imo State.
Decimating IPOB/ESN Terror Cells
Between October 19 and 23, 2024, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit delivered decisive blows to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN) militant camps in Oru-East and Oru-West LGAs. Acting on credible intelligence, they raided terrorist hideouts, arrested over 20 suspects, and recovered a cache of deadly weapons, explosives, and other criminal paraphernalia.
The crackdown led to the dismantling of several camps and the neutralization of major threats posed by the group. Recovered weapons included five pump-action guns, locally made firearms, grenades, and 60 live cartridges, underscoring the level of threat these groups posed to national security.
Preemptive Operations and Proactive Policing
Following firm directives from the state Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, the unit shifted from reactive to proactive policing.
On August 21, 2024, operatives rescued a kidnapped woman from Obinze Forest, arrested five suspects, and recovered deadly weapons including a pump-action gun and battle daggers. Similarly, intelligence-driven operations on October 11, 2024, led to the bust of a syndicate responsible for kidnappings and armed robberies in Mbaise.
The suspects were not only arrested but were also compelled to identify vehicle receivers involved in an elaborate criminal network. Recovered vehicles and confessional statements pointed to a deeply coordinated network, which has now been dismantled.
Changing the Narrative
Operating under a philosophy rooted in visibility, credibility, and results, the unit has demonstrated impressive inter-agency synergy, tactical intelligence gathering, and rapid response. They have effectively flipped the security script in Imo State.
Despite criticism, the unit continues to prioritize public safety and is making notable progress in securing the state.
A traditional ruler, Eze Fabian Nworgu, remarked that many of the critics are politicians who use criminals to cause unrest. According to the 70-year-old monarch, “Since Tiger Base was carved out from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), many of us have been breathing a sigh of relief. Although we’re aware that most of the criticism is a response to their commendable efforts in combating kidnappers and other criminal elements, they should be encouraged to continue fighting for us and not be discouraged by attacks from individuals with selfish interests.”
End.