The Enugu State Police Command successfully rescued four individuals who had been kidnapped in a forest located at Aishi-Ette in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area. The operation, which took place on Sunday, involved the collaborative efforts of the State Forest Guard, Neighbourhood Watch Group, and the police.
As maintained by SaharaReporters, during the rescue mission, a fierce gun battle ensued between the police and the abductors, resulting in the kidnappers sustaining gunshot wounds. As a result, they abandoned the victims and fled the scene, allowing the rescue team to safely retrieve the individuals.
Unfortunately, one of the victims suffered a gunshot wound to the left thigh during the confrontation. However, immediate medical attention was provided, and the victim is currently in stable condition, responding well to treatment. Thankfully, the remaining victims and all the operatives involved in the operation emerged unharmed.
The kidnapped individuals were reported to have been taken from Umuopu village along the Ette/Ogugu Road on June 23, 2023, around 9:30 PM. The criminals demanded a ransom of N10 million for each victim.
The state police commissioner, Ahmed Ammani, expressed his appreciation to the rescue team for their effective implementation of strategies and adherence to his previous instructions regarding the deployment of personnel and operational resources to combat abduction cases in the state.
Furthermore, the police commissioner urged all members of the police force to remain focused and continue their relentless pursuit of criminal elements. He emphasized that the police would not cease their efforts until the state was completely free from unrepentant criminals and their activities.
In line with this commitment, the police commissioner called upon the public, particularly owners of medical facilities, to promptly report any individuals found with gunshot injuries to the nearest police station. Such reports are essential for appropriate action in accordance with the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017.