Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have successfully neutralized two suspected kidnappers and rescued a male victim during a raid on a kidnappers' hideout in Nokpa-Nike, Enugu East Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place on the evening of October 17, 2024, involved the combined efforts of the command’s Anti-Kidnapping, Distress Response, and Special Intervention Squads. Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives stormed the location, which resulted in a fierce gunfight as the kidnappers opened fire. Two of the suspects were fatally wounded during the exchange, while others managed to escape with gunshot injuries.
A manhunt is currently underway for the fleeing suspects and other members of the syndicate, who have been linked to multiple kidnapping cases across Enugu and its environs.
The rescued victim, who had been abducted on September 27, 2024, in the Trans-Ekulu area of Enugu, was identified as the personal assistant to an unnamed public figure. Fortunately, he was found unharmed during the operation.
In addition to the successful rescue, the police recovered a cache of weapons, including one G-3 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, and 125 rounds of live ammunition. Investigations revealed that the kidnappers had initially demanded a ransom of forty million naira (N40 million) for the victim’s release.
Daniel Ndukwe, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed in a statement that some members of the gang had previously been apprehended, arraigned in court, and linked to other kidnapping incidents within the state. He further disclosed that the Enugu State Government had demolished buildings used by the group for their criminal operations.
Commending the operatives for their swift and decisive action, Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating violent crime in Enugu. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement by providing timely information on any suspicious activities.
