Imo State Police Command operatives have successfully neutralized two suspected kidnappers and rescued four abducted persons during a gun battle in Umuokanne, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area.
In a statement on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, disclosed that the operation followed a distress call received around noon, reporting the abduction of three women and one man in the area.
“The operation began when a distress call was received at around 12:00 pm on Saturday, reporting the abduction of three women and one man in Umuokanne, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area,” the statement read.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the police anti-kidnapping unit located the hideout of the criminal syndicate.
“Upon arrival, the operatives encountered fierce resistance from the kidnappers, resulting in a gunfight.
“During the operation, two suspects were neutralized. The four victims—Carolyn Didia (42), Ego Odu (48), Apollonia Ezekwe (40), and Godwin Ezekwe (37)—were successfully freed,” Okoye said.
The police said it also recovered an AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a magazine from the suspects.
It however stated that unfortunately, two of the rescued victims sustained gunshot injuries during the confrontation.
“The injured victims were promptly taken to Oforola Health Centre, where they are now stable and recovering well,” the spokesperson added.
Okoye assured residents of the police command’s dedication to ensuring the safety of all citizens in the state.
“The Imo State Police Command has assured the public of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding residents,” he said.
The command emphasized that investigations are ongoing to track down any remaining members of the criminal syndicate.
It urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to aid the police in their mission to eradicate crime.
“This successful operation underscores the importance of timely intelligence and community collaboration in combating crime. We call on the public to support our efforts by providing information that can help us enhance security,” Okoye concluded.
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