Police Neutralizes Two Members Of Enugu Deadly Abduction Gang

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Enugu state Police Command on Friday, October 18, 2024, announced the neutralization of two suspected kidnappers in the Nokpa-Nike area, Enugu East Local Council of the State.

The two suspected hoodlums were eliminated following an audacious and successful raid on their criminal hideout on Thursday October 17, by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Distress Response and Special Intervention Squad.

A statement by the  Command’s spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, DSP, said the raid was sequel to the receipt of actionable intelligence on the activities of the criminal elements.

“Upon the operatives arrival, the kidnappers opened fire, prompting a return of fire. In the process, two of the suspects were neutralized, while others fled with varying degrees of gunshot injuries .

A manhunt for the fleeing suspects and others linked to the syndicate is underway.

The police also said that its personnel were able to rescue a victim, as well as recover some dangerous weapons in the course of the raid on the kidnappers’ den.

“A male victim, identified as the Personal Assistant, PA, to a public figure ( names withheld ) kidnapped by the gang on September 27, 2024 in Trans-Ekulu, Enugu, was rescued unharmed.

“During the operation, the police recovered one G-3 rifle ,two AK-47 rifles ,three magazines and one hundred and twenty five (125) rounds of live ammunition.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that this criminal group had demanded a ransom of forty Million Naira( N40 ..million) for the release of the victim.

“The group is also found to be responsible for several kidnappings within Enugu metropolis and its environs .Some of their members had previously been arrested and arraigned in court, with firearms and ammunition recovered from them”, part of the police statement reads.

Meanwhile, in line with its recent resolution, the Enugu state Government, according to the statement has already demolished the buildings which served as holden cells for the criminal gang.

The Police spokesman noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, while commending the gallant efforts of the operatives, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment towards halting criminal activities in the state.