... rescue four victims, recover arms
By Prisca Nguzo
Barely two weeks, the operatives of Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Imo State Police Command successfully neutralized three suspected kidnappers in Orogwe in Owerri West council of the state, the unit has again killed another two in a fresh operation.
The recent killing which brought the number to five in less than three week, in a release signed by the Command's spokesman, ASP Henry Okoye followed a distress call was received by the command over the abduction of three women and one man in Umuokanne, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area, last Friday.
According to Okoye, like in the Orogwe incident, upon arriving their camp, the kidnappers opened fire which the operatives swiftly responded to, leading to the killing of the two, while others escaped with heavy gun shots.
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The operatives aside rescuing the four kidnapped victims, also recovered from the criminals one AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a magazine.
Okoye who also disclosed that, "Investigations are currently underway to apprehend any remaining members of the criminal syndicate", reassured the public of the command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the Imo citizens cum residents.
The statement reads, "Operatives of the Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit have successfully neutralized two suspects and rescued four kidnapped victims from a notorious armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating within the state.
"The operation, which took place on January 4, 2025, began when a distress call was received at around 12:00 PM, reporting the abduction of three women and one man in Umuokanne, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area.
"Acting swiftly on intelligence gathered, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit located the criminals' hideout. Upon arrival, a gunfight ensued between the police operatives and the kidnappers."
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Okoye continued, "During the operation, two suspects were neutralized. The four victims—Carolyn Didia (42), Ego Odu (48), Apollonia Ezekwe (40), and Godwin Ezekwe (37)—were successfully freed.
"In addition to rescuing the victims, the police recovered one AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a magazine from the criminals.
"However, two of the rescued victims sustained gunshot wounds from the kidnappers' bullets during the confrontation. They were promptly taken to Oforola Health Centre, where they are now stable and recovering well."
"The Imo State Police Command has assured the public of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding residents. Investigations are currently underway to apprehend any remaining members of the criminal syndicate. The police have urged the public to report any suspicious activities to support further efforts in enhancing community safety." he added.
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