In a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and violent crimes, operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have rescued 28 kidnapped victims, arrested 10 suspects, and recovered weapons, cash, and other exhibits in several coordinated operations across the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, in a statement on Tuesday, disclosed that the operations were carried out under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc.
On May 18, four victims—two males and two females—were rescued during a bush-combing operation along Umumba-Ndiuno-Aguoba Road in Ezeagu LGA. Four suspects were arrested on the spot and are currently assisting investigations.
That same day, a failed kidnapping attempt led to the rearrest of one suspect by operatives from the 9th Mile Division after a mob attack. The suspect, who was injured by the mob, is under hospital care and ongoing interrogation.
A day earlier, on May 17, officers from the Okpuje Division, supported by local security groups, stormed a forest between Enugu and Kogi States where they intercepted two men suspected to be delivering ransom money. Armed kidnappers engaged the team but were repelled, leading to the rescue of victims and the recovery of a pump-action rifle and cartridges.
On May 14, a joint operation involving police, the military, and vigilantes rescued 21 kidnapped individuals in Amaka-Okpodu community, Kogi State. The victims had been abducted days earlier in Igbo-Eze North LGA while returning from a traditional marriage. Five suspects were arrested and arms recovered.
Also, on May 13, operatives rescued another kidnapped victim along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway and recovered the victim’s Toyota Camry, along with two other vehicles used by the suspects.
Commending the operatives, CP Giwa reiterated the command’s unwavering resolve to stamp out violent crime and ensure a safer Enugu. He also urged residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing efforts by the police and other security agencies.
