Gladness Gideon
A late-night police operation led to the dramatic rescue of a kidnapped victim in Umuege Village, Amawbia, as officers from the Central Police Station in Awka disrupted a suspected abduction and forced the perpetrators to abandon their victim.
Spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the successful rescue in a statement on Wednesday, praising the swift response and tactical positioning of operatives who swung into action after receiving distress intelligence around 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday.
According to the police, the kidnappers—who were operating in an unmarked Toyota Sienna—were intercepted by pursuing officers, prompting them to flee and leave their captive behind near Umunya, along the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway.
“The Anambra State Police Command today, April 23, confirmed the rescue and safe return of a kidnapped victim at Umuege Village, Amawbia, Awka, and has debriefed the victim for necessary action,” Ikenga stated.
The police operation, described as a “hot chase,” forced the assailants to abandon their mission, demonstrating what the Command called a “proactive and strategic response” by its personnel.
While the identity of the rescued victim was not disclosed, the Command reassured the public that the individual was unharmed and is currently receiving support and further assistance from law enforcement.
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Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Aderemi Adeoye, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident. Authorities say intelligence gathering is underway to apprehend those behind the attempted abduction.
“This latest success is part of our ongoing effort to curb violent crimes and reassure residents of their safety,” the statement added.
The police urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information that can aid in the prevention of crime.
As security agencies intensify efforts to clamp down on kidnapping networks across the state, residents are hopeful that such swift interventions will become the norm rather than the exception.