Operatives of the anti-kidnapping tactical squad of Enugu State Police Command have neutralised a suspected kidnapper while also rescuing a male kidnap victim.
One locally fabricated double-barreled pistol loaded with two live cartridges was also recovered from the neutralised suspect together with a green-coloured Nissan Almeria car used for kidnapping.
Spokesman of the Enugu Police Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe disclosed that the suspects, operating in the Nissan vehicle, had abducted the victim in his Mercedes Jeep at the Government Residential Area (GRA), Enugu around 9p.m. on the fateful day
He added that the kidnappers subsequently drove their victim to an unknown location.
The Commissioner of Police Enugu Command, CP Bitrus Giwa, on receiving report on the abduction, immediately mobilised operational and intelligence assets, directing personnel to ensure the victim’s safe rescue and arrest of the perpetrators.
Ndukwe added that through coordinated efforts, police operatives trailed the gang to their hideout in a valley within the Ngwo area.
“A gunfight ensued, leading to the neutralisation of one of the suspects and the safe rescue of the victim.
“However, the suspects had forcefully transferred the sum of ₦2,250,000.00 from the victim’s account after initially demanding a ransom of ₦20,000,000.00,” the police spokesperson said.
CP Giwa, while commending the operatives for the swift and successful operation, mandated them to intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining fleeing suspects and recover the victim’s vehicle.
“He reaffirms the Command’s unwavering commitment to rid the State of unrepentant criminals, soliciting citizens’ continued support,” Enugu police image maker stated.