From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have neutralized two suspected kidnappers and rescued a male victim during a raid on a kidnappers’ hideout in Nokpa-Nike, Enugu East Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place on the evening of October 17, 2024, was carried out by the command’s Anti-Kidnapping, Distress Response, and Special Intervention Squads.
Acting on intelligence, the operatives stormed the location, leading to a gunfight as the kidnappers opened fire. Two suspects were shot dead during the encounter, while others escaped with gunshot injuries. The police confirmed that a manhunt is underway for the fleeing suspects and other members of the syndicate linked to multiple kidnappings within Enugu and its environs. The victim, identified as the personal assistant to an unnamed public figure, was kidnapped on September 27, 2024, in the Trans-Ekulu area of Enugu. He was rescued unharmed during the operation. The police also recovered one G-3 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, and 125 rounds of live ammunition.
Investigations revealed that the gang had demanded a ransom of N40 million for the victim’s release.
The spokesman of the State Police Command, Daniel Ndukwe who made this known in a statement on Friday, said some members of the gang had previously been arrested, arraigned in court, and linked to various kidnapping incidents across the state.
The Enugu State Government has also demolished buildings used by the group for their criminal operations.
Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, praised the operatives for their swift and decisive action, reaffirming the command’s commitment to tackling violent crime in the state. He urged residents to stay vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely information on suspicious activities.
