- The rescue operation occurred on 13 February 2025
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnapped man in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area following a fierce gun battle that forced his abductors to flee, leaving him unharmed.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, highlighting the command’s unwavering commitment to tackling crime and ensuring public safety.
The rescue operation occurred on 13 February 2025, when police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, confronted the kidnappers along Okop Eto Road. The abductors, who had taken the man to an undisclosed location, were met with superior firepower and abandoned their victim as they escaped with severe gunshot wounds.
“The operatives engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel. The hoodlums, overwhelmed by superior firepower, fled with severe gunshot injuries, abandoning the victim,” DSP John said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the officers for their swift and professional response. He reassured the public of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat crime, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The rescued victim has since been safely reunited with his family. During the operation, the police also recovered the victim’s stolen ash-coloured Lexus RX 350 SUV.
DSP John confirmed that efforts are underway to track down the fleeing suspects and recover the weapons used in the crime. The police are determined to bring those responsible to justice and maintain safety in the community.