By Ogele John
The Abia State Police Command has reported the killing of six kidnappers following a fierce exchange of gunfire with its tactical team in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area. The operation led to the rescue of four kidnapping victims, who had been held captive for nearly a week.
Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, shared the details of the operation during a press conference at the Government House in Umuahia on Saturday evening. He explained that the gunfight occurred on Friday, March 14, after the kidnappers had taken the victims on Sunday, March 9, around 8 p.m. at Umuahia New Road, Aba.
“The kidnappers intercepted the victims and took them to an undisclosed location. Our tactical team, with the support of advanced technology provided by Governor Alex Otti, tracked the criminals to a suburb in Osisioma Ngwa,” the CP explained.
When the police attempted to rescue the victims, they came under heavy gunfire. The ensuing gun battle led to the death of six kidnappers, with some others escaping with bullet wounds. Authorities recovered six AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and 32 rounds of ammunition from the scene.
Governor Alex Otti, who attended the press briefing, emphasized that no part of Abia State would be allowed to fall into the hands of criminals. He commended the police for their bravery and directed the immediate demolition of the house where the victims were held. Additionally, he ordered the arrest of the landlord of the property, stressing that any property used for criminal activity would face consequences.
“The house where the kidnappers operated will be demolished, and the landlord, if not yet arrested, will face prosecution. No landlord should allow their property to be used by criminals,” Governor Otti declared.
The governor also called for the involvement of local traditional leaders to ensure community responsibility, stating that those who harbor criminals must be held accountable.
Pledging continued support for security agencies, Governor Otti reiterated that the state government would keep investing in technology to ensure public safety. He also announced financial rewards for the tactical team, praising their exceptional performance.
One of the rescued victims shared the traumatic experience, describing how they were abducted while dropping off a friend. They were kept in a small, windowless room and deprived of food, while the kidnappers demanded ransoms. Fortunately, the police arrived just in time, and a gunfight with the kidnappers led to their rescue.
“This was a horrifying ordeal. We were locked in a room for days with no food. But when we heard gunshots on Friday, we knew the police had come,” the victim recalled.
Governor Otti concluded by reaffirming his commitment to keeping Abia safe, vowing to continue taking decisive action against criminals operating within the state.
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