In a successful operation, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit (Tiger Base) of the Imo State Police Command, alongside military personnel, has dismantled a kidnapping ring in the state.
On October 4, operatives launched an intelligence-led mission in Ezioha, Mbaitoli Local Government Area, which resulted in the shooting of one suspect and the rescue of four victims.
According to a statement from ASP Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer, the operation led to the neutralization of a suspected terrorist and the safe return of individuals abducted along Orlu Road on September 29, 2024.
The rescued victims include Eze Okoro from Orlu LGA, and a couple, Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Nwosu, aged 44 and 31, respectively, from Ohi in Mbaitoli LGA. Additionally, a 56-year-old man named Bartholomew from Benue State was also freed.
Okoye reported that the operation turned into a gunfight when the suspects opened fire on the approaching security forces, who effectively retaliated. The ensuing exchange led to one suspect being killed while others fled into nearby bushes, sustaining various injuries.
The police also recovered several items from the kidnappers’ hideout, including a pump-action shotgun, ten live cartridges, four expended cartridges, four locally made explosives, a Biafra flag, a bulletproof vest, two Highlander SUVs, an ash-colored Toyota Camry, among other items.
In response to the successful operation, CP Aboki Danjuma, the Commissioner of Police for Imo State, along with the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, praised the operatives for their prompt and effective actions. They urged the joint forces to continue their vigorous efforts in combating crime in the region.
