*as CP Giwa reiterates commitment to safer Enugu state

Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have rescued 28 kidnapped victims, arrested 10 suspects and recovered firearms, ammunition, vehicles, and other exhibits in series of coordinated anti-crime operations across the state.

The operations, carried out under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, spanned from 13th May to 18th May, 2025.

The operations involved strategic collaborations with local security outfits, including, the Neighbourhood Watch, Forest Guards, the Military, and vigilant community members.

According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, “on 18th May, at about 6:30 pm, operatives from the Umumba Police Division, working with local security groups, rescued four kidnap victims —two men and two women— along the Umumba-Ndiuno-Aguoba Road in Ezeagu Local Government Area. 

“Four male suspects were arrested at the scene and are currently assisting police investigations.

“Later the same day, operatives from the 9th Mile Division, swiftly responded to a distress call involving an attempted kidnap. 

“A yet-to-be identified male suspect was rescued and re-arrested from a violent mob after he and three accomplices tried to abduct a woman who raised an alarm. 

“The suspect, who was severely beaten by the mob, was taken to hospital and is under investigation,” Ndukwe stated.

“On 17th May, operatives from the Okpuje Police Division, alongside the Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guards, carried out a bush-combing operation in a forest between Okpuje in Enugu and Odolu in Kogi State. 

“The team intercepted two men found with cash (₦150,000 and ₦70,000) suspected to be ransom payments, as well as loaves of bread and drinks requested by kidnappers.

“During the operation, the team encountered armed resistance from the kidnappers but responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to flee with gunshot wounds.

“The victims were rescued unharmed, while a pump-action gun and two live cartridges were recovered. Manhunt efforts for the fleeing suspects are ongoing.

“In related operation on 14th May, at about 5:30 am, a joint team of police operatives from Igboeze-North Division, military personnel, and Neighbourhood Watch members rescued 21 kidnapped victims in Amaka-Okpodu, Kogi State. 

“The victims, abducted on 10th May, while returning from a traditional marriage ceremony, were held by hooded gunmen along the Iyionu-Aguibeje Road.

“Five suspects were arrested following credible intelligence, and three firearms were recovered. 

“A minibus and four motorcycles used by the victims before their abduction were also recovered,” Ndukwe added.

“On 13th May, operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad, acting on a tip-off, rescued a kidnapped victim along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway and recovered his Toyota Camry. 

“The squad also recovered a white Toyota Corolla with registration number ENU 703 LP used by the suspects, as well as a Lexus 330 Jeep abandoned at the crime scene in Premier Layout, Independence Layout, Enugu,” he said.

Commending the efforts of all involved in the operations, CP Giwa praised the dedication of police operatives and the collaboration of local security groups and community members. 

“These achievements underscore our commitment to making Enugu State safer and more secure,” he added.

He urged residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of security agencies in the fight against crime, assuring that the command will continue to go after criminals until they are brought to justice.

“We are determined to rid Enugu State of unrepentant violent criminals. With the cooperation of the people, we will continue to make progress,” CP Giwa stated.