Group Accuses Imo Police Unit of Secret Detentions, Demands Probe Over Missing Persons

A civil society organisation has called on the Imo State Government to urgently investigate allegations of abuse involving the police anti-kidnapping squad known as Tiger Base.

In a petition to Governor Hope Uzodimma, the group expressed concern over reports that hundreds of individuals may have disappeared or died after encounters with the unit. It urged authorities to take immediate steps to address the situation and ensure justice for affected families.

The petition alleged that operatives of the unit have been involved in unlawful arrests, prolonged detentions without trial, and acts of extortion. It also claimed that detainees are often subjected to harsh treatment while in custody.

According to the group, families of victims are sometimes forced to pay large sums in exchange for the release of their relatives, while others are left without any information about the whereabouts of loved ones.

The organisation maintained that repeated complaints over the years have not resulted in meaningful action, warning that continued inaction could further erode public confidence in law enforcement.

It called on the state government to launch an independent investigation, hold those found culpable accountable, and implement reforms to prevent future violations.