Operatives of the Abia State Police Command have successfully rescued four individuals abducted by kidnappers and eliminated six suspects during a shootout in Osisioma Local Government Area.
The Commissioner of Police in Abia, Danladi Isa, while presenting the freed victims at the Government House in Umuahia on Saturday, disclosed that they had been kidnapped on March 9 along New Umuahia Road in Obingwa Local Government Area.
“Our tactical team acted swiftly after receiving intelligence on the kidnappers’ location. Using advanced tracking technology, we traced them to Osukwa in Osisioma LGA,” Isa stated.
He explained that the police operatives launched an assault on the hideout but met fierce resistance from the criminals.
“They opened fire on our men, but we engaged them in a gun duel. In the process, six of the suspects were neutralized, while others escaped with gunshot wounds,” he said.
Two AK-47 rifles and several rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the scene, he added.
Reacting to the development, Governor Alex Otti commended the police for their prompt action, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents.
“For us in Abia, security is non-negotiable. We will not allow criminals to take over any part of our state,” the governor declared.
He further directed that the building used as a hideout by the kidnappers be demolished immediately and ordered a thorough investigation into the case.
“I congratulate the Commissioner of Police and his team for their bravery in rescuing our citizens. We are grateful that none of the victims sustained injuries despite the intense gunfire,” Otti said.
The governor also announced plans to invest in advanced security technology, revealing that a state-of-the-art control centre would soon be established in Umuahia to enhance crime prevention and response.
“Our government is determined to create a safe environment for all residents. We will continue to provide the necessary resources for security agencies to perform their duties effectively,” he assured.
