Four kidnap victims rescued as police kill six kidnappers in Abia

• Six kidnappers were also killed by operatives of the State Police Command in the gun battle that ensued during the rescue operation

Four persons abducted by kidnappers have been rescued in Osisioma Local Government Area of Abia State, the police in the south-east state have said.

Six kidnappers were also killed by operatives of the State Police Command in the gun battle that ensued during the rescue operation.

The victims were said to have been abducted on March 9 along New Umuahia Road in Obingwa Local Government Area.

The Commissioner of Police in Abia, Danladi Isa, presented the rescued victims at the Government House in Umuahia on Saturday.

Isa disclosed that the police tactical team launched an operation after receiving intelligence on the kidnappers’ location, using advanced technology to track them to Osukwa in Osisioma LGA.

“Our men stormed the hideout where the victims were kept, but they came under heavy gunfire from the criminals. In the ensuing exchange, six of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while others fled with bullet wounds,” he said.

He added that two AK-47 rifles and several rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the scene.

“This achievement is a result of the continuous support of Governor Alex Otti to security agencies, including the police,” Isa said.

Reacting, Otti commended the police for their swift response and assured them of his administration’s commitment to security.

He also ordered the immediate demolition of the house where the victims were held and directed that a thorough investigation be carried out.

“For us in Abia, security is non-negotiable. We will not allow criminals to take over any part of our state,” Otti said.

“I congratulate the CP and his team for their bravery in rescuing our citizens. We are grateful that none of the victims was harmed despite the intense exchange of gunfire.”

The governor further pledged to continue investing in security technology, stating that plans were underway to establish a state-of-the-art control centre in Umuahia to enhance crime-fighting efforts.