A joint team of security operatives successfully apprehended a group of suspected kidnappers in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State at about 8:30 pm on Sunday.
The arrested suspects have been identified as:
- Chinonso Offor, a native of Enugu State, residing in Ekwulobia,
- Hycent Ugwuike, from Nsukka, residing in Onitsha, and
- Samuel Sunday, a native of Akwa Ibom, residing in Isuochi, Abia State.
According to reports, the arrest followed a fierce gun exchange between the hoodlums and the security operatives. The operation also led to the rescue of a kidnap victim who was abducted at Neni, near Okacha Junction.
Items recovered from the suspects include:
- Two AK-47 rifles with live ammunition
- Fake police and military uniforms
- Two cell phones
- Two bulletproof vests
- Two walkie-talkies
- A black Prado Jeep with registration number GWA 696 CM ABUJA
- An ash-colored Lexus 350 with registration number EKY 605 GV LAGOS, among other incriminating materials.
Confirming the incident, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed that the suspects have made confessional statements to the police regarding their involvement in kidnapping activities across the state.
He further revealed that the suspects remain in custody and are currently undergoing further investigation to unravel more details and possible links to a wider criminal network.
Security agencies have assured the public of their continued resolve to rid Anambra State of criminal elements and maintain peace and safety across communities.
