Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command successfully raided a kidnappers’ hideout in Nokpa-Nike, Enugu East Local Government Area, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, neutralizing two suspects and rescuing a victim unharmed.
The operation, conducted by the Anti-Kidnapping, Distress Response, and Special Intervention Squads, also led to the recovery of several firearms.
The police command’s spokesperson, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Friday.
He noted that the operation was part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping in the state.
Ndukwe stated, “Upon reaching the hideout, the operatives were met with gunfire from the suspects, which led to a shootout. Two kidnappers were fatally injured, while others managed to escape with gunshot wounds.”
The rescued victim, who had been abducted on September 27, 2024, in Trans-Ekulu, Enugu, is reportedly the personal assistant to an unnamed public figure.
Ndukwe revealed that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N40 million for the victim’s release.
In addition to rescuing the victim, police recovered one G-3 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, and 125 rounds of live ammunition from the hideout. Preliminary investigations suggest the group was responsible for multiple kidnappings in Enugu and the surrounding areas.
Ndukwe added that some members of the criminal group had been previously arrested and arraigned in court, with firearms recovered during earlier operations.
“A manhunt is underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and other members of the syndicate,” he said.
The spokesperson further disclosed that the buildings used by the criminals, including the one raided during the latest operation, had been demolished by the Enugu State Government as part of ongoing efforts to rid the area of criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, commended the operatives for their swift action and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eradicating violent crime in the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
“We will not rest until Enugu is completely safe from these criminal elements,” Uzuegbu declared, urging the public to support the police in their mission to ensure the safety of the state.
