By Chinonso Alozie

Owerri- The Imo State Police Command has killed two suspected kidnappers and rescued four of their victims, at Umuokanne community in Ohaji/Egbema council Area of the state.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Henry Okoye, stated this on Saturday while parading the lifeless bodies of the two suspected kidnappers at the command’s headquarters in Owerri.

According to the Police, the operatives moved into action when it received a distress call about the kidnapping of three women in the said community.

Narrating how it happened, the command said: “Operatives of the Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit have successfully neutralized two suspects and rescued four kidnapped victims from a notorious armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating within the state. The operation, which took place on January 4, 2025, began when a distress call was received at around 12:00 PM, reporting the abduction of three women and one man in Umuokanne, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area.

“Acting swiftly on intelligence gathered, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit located the criminals’ hideout. Upon arrival, a gunfight ensued between the police operatives and the kidnappers. During the operation, two suspects were neutralized. The four victims—Carolyn Didia (42), Ego Odu (48), Apollonia Ezekwe (40), and Godwin Ezekwe (37)—were successfully freed.”

The command added that; “In addition to rescuing the victims, the police recovered one AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a magazine from the criminals. However, two of the rescued victims sustained gunshot wounds from the kidnappers’ bullets during the confrontation. They were promptly taken to Oforola Health Centre, where they are now stable and recovering well.”

However, “The Imo State Police Command has assured the public of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding residents. Investigations are currently underway to apprehend any remaining members of the criminal syndicate. The police have urged the public to report any suspicious activities to support further efforts in enhancing community safety.”