Paragraph 1: A Wave of Success Against Kidnapping in Enugu State
The Enugu State Police Command achieved significant breakthroughs against kidnapping syndicates, demonstrating a robust response to the persistent threat of abduction within the state. In a coordinated series of operations spanning multiple days, law enforcement agencies collaborated effectively, leading to the successful rescue of 28 individuals held captive by kidnappers. This concerted effort underscores the commitment of the Enugu Police Command to prioritize the safety and security of its citizens and to dismantle criminal networks operating within its jurisdiction. The operations, characterized by tactical precision and inter-agency cooperation, also resulted in the apprehension of 10 suspects, further hampering the activities of these criminal groups.
Paragraph 2: Tactical Rescues and Key Arrests:
Among the successful operations was a targeted rescue mission conducted by operatives attached to the Umumba Police Division. Acting swiftly on intelligence, they successfully rescued four victims, two male and two female, who had been abducted along the Umumba-Ndiuno-Aguoba Road in Ezeagu Local Government Area. This swift action prevented further harm to the victims and allowed for the immediate arrest of four male suspects connected to the kidnapping. These suspects are currently under investigation, providing valuable information that may contribute to unraveling the wider criminal network. In a separate incident, the rapid response of 9th Mile Division operatives prevented a potential kidnapping, leading to the apprehension of one suspect who was subsequently hospitalized after being apprehended by an alerted community.
Paragraph 3: Disrupting Kidnapping Operations and Recovering Ransom Money:
Operatives from the Okpuje Police Division played a crucial role in disrupting a kidnapping operation in a forest bordering Enugu and Kogi states. Their strategic bush-combing operation, conducted in collaboration with Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guards, led to the interception of two individuals carrying substantial sums of money, believed to be ransom payments. The subsequent encounter with the kidnappers themselves forced the criminals to abandon their victims and flee, leaving behind crucial evidence, including a pump-action gun and live cartridges. The recovery of the ransom money and the disruption of the kidnappers’ plans signify a significant victory against their criminal enterprise.
Paragraph 4: Large-Scale Rescue and Recovery of Abducted Wedding Guests:
A major success was the rescue of 21 individuals who had been abducted while returning from a traditional marriage ceremony. This operation, involving the Igbo-Eze North Division, Military personnel, and Neighbourhood Watch, took place in Amaka-Okpodu community, Kogi State. The victims, kidnapped along the Iyionu-Aguibeje Road in Igbo-Eze North LGA, were returned to safety after several days in captivity. Following the rescue, five male suspects were apprehended based on credible intelligence, further strengthening the case against the perpetrators. The recovery of three firearms and the victims’ vehicles used in the abduction further crippled the kidnappers’ capabilities.
Paragraph 5: Highway Rescue and Vehicle Recovery:
The Enugu/Port-Harcourt Expressway, a major artery for travel and commerce, was also the scene of a successful rescue operation. Operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad responded to credible information, leading to the rescue of a kidnapped victim and the recovery of his Toyota Camry. The operation also resulted in the recovery of two vehicles used by the kidnappers: a white Toyota Corolla and a Lexus 330 Jeep. The successful recovery of these vehicles provides crucial evidence for ongoing investigations and may help uncover links to other criminal activities.
Paragraph 6: Community Partnership and Continued Vigilance:
The successes achieved by the Enugu State Police Command emphasize the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community security groups, and vigilant citizens. The Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa, commended the joint efforts of all involved, highlighting the vital role of community partnerships in maintaining peace and security. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to creating a safer environment for all residents and urged continued vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. These combined efforts aim to disrupt criminal operations, deter future kidnapping attempts, and ensure the continued safety and security of Enugu State.
