Enugu State police officers stopped an abduction attempt on the Adani-Nsukka Road, killing one armed suspect and recovering an AK-47 rifle during a heated early-morning fire battle with suspected kidnappers.
According to our correspondent, the confrontation took place around 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 18, at the Ngene-Ukwu axis of the highway, when officers from the Adani Division, working with members of the Neighborhood Watch Group, apprehended the suspects as they allegedly emerged from a nearby bush to abduct occupants of a passing vehicle.
SP Daniel Ndukwe, spokesperson for the Command, confirmed the incident on Monday, saying, “During the exchange of gunfire, one of the suspects was neutralized, while an AK-47 rifle loaded with two rounds of live ammunition was recovered.”
Police stated that the suspects opened fire upon sighting the operatives, triggering a shootout that forced other members of the gang to flee into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, but the operatives responded with superior firepower, leading to the neutralization of one of the kidnappers,” the command said, adding that the remaining suspects escaped with varying degrees of injuries.
The police stated a manhunt is underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network responsible for the attempted 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 vicinity were advised to aid security services by reporting any suspicious gunshot wounds.
“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.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Giwa, commended the officers for their “gallantry and professionalism” and assured people of the police command’s commitment to combating violent crime in the state.
He added the police and other security forces are still motivated to “rid Enugu State of violent criminal elements and ensure the continued safety and security of all residents.”
