Onwuemelie characterized the security situation as involving 'disturbing developments' and stated that violent attacks and armed robbery cases in Aba require strategic attention. He noted that although incidents may be isolated, they must be swiftly addressed to prevent escalation. This order follows an incident approximately two weeks prior, where an armed gang attacked and robbed people at a shopping complex at the Okpulo Umuobo Junction near Aba. According to NAN, sources reported that after robbing a pharmacy, the robbers shot the owner and dropped off a shotgun while escaping.

In a separate development reported by deccanchronicle.com, Ch. Vijaya Rao, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), directed a multi-pronged approach to ensure free and fair elections during a meeting with Superintendents of Police (SPs) from four districts on Saturday. DIG Rao ordered police to file First Information Reports (FIRs) promptly for any model code of conduct violations and to collect firearms licenses to prevent misuse. He further directed collaboration with officials from the Excise, Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB), Forest Department, and Regional Transport Authority (RTA) at integrated check posts and border areas. DIG Rao stressed the need for proactive measures in areas prone to factional violence, including organizing pre-emptive meetings with local communities, conducting joint patrols with central armed police forces in sensitive zones, and taking immediate action on complaints received through the C-Vigil app.