Rita Enemuru, Reporting
POLICE operatives in Enugu State have thwarted an attempted kidnapping along the Adani–Nsukka Road, killing one armed suspect and recovering an AK-47 rifle during a gun battle with suspected kidnappers in the early hours of Sunday.
The incident occurred at about 6:00 a.m. on January 18 at the Ngene-Ukwu axis of the highway, where officers attached to the Adani Division, in collaboration with members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group, intercepted the suspects as they allegedly emerged from a nearby bush to abduct occupants of a passing vehicle.
Confirming the development on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said the suspects opened fire on sighting the operatives, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
According to the police, the remaining members of the gang fled into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds after being overwhelmed by the operatives.
“During the exchange of gunfire, one of the suspects was neutralised, while an AK-47 rifle loaded with two rounds of live ammunition was recovered.
“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, but the operatives responded with superior firepower, leading to the neutralisation of one of the kidnappers,” the command said, adding that the fleeing suspects sustained varying degrees of injuries,” Ndukwe said.
The police said a manhunt has been launched to apprehend the escaped suspects and dismantle the criminal network behind the foiled abduction.
“Efforts have been intensified to trace, identify, and arrest the fleeing suspects, as well as dismantle the entire criminal network,” the statement added.
Residents and healthcare workers in the area were urged to assist security agencies by reporting anyone with suspicious injuries.
“Members of the public, particularly residents and healthcare providers, are urged to promptly report anyone presenting with gunshot wounds or suspicious injuries,” the police said.
Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Mamman Giwa, lauded the officers for their “gallantry and professionalism” and reassured residents of the command’s resolve to curb violent crime.
He said the police, in synergy with other security agencies, remain determined to “rid Enugu State of violent criminal elements and ensure the continued safety and security of all residents.”
