Police in Anambra State successfully thwarted a kidnapping attempt and rescued three victims, including a married couple, following a swift response to a distress call in Neni town on Saturday night.
According to police reports, officers from the Neni Divisional Headquarters responded to an emergency call at approximately 8:45 PM on May 3rd near Okacha junction. Upon arrival at the scene, they engaged the kidnappers, forcing them to flee and abandoning one of the vehicles they had seized from the victims.
“Our officers acted with remarkable speed and courage,” said SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer for Anambra State Police Command. “Their prompt intervention prevented what could have been another tragic kidnapping incident in our state.”
Authorities have now launched a manhunt for the armed criminals who escaped with a black Lexus 350 SUV bearing registration number ABJ 557 LD, which was reportedly snatched from the second rescued victim. A joint security operation involving the military, Civil Defence Corps, and local vigilantes has been mobilised to complement police efforts.
The operation represents another successful intervention by security forces in the state, which has been battling incidents of kidnapping and armed robbery in recent months.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu has urged residents to remain vigilant and continue working with security agencies to maintain peace in the state.
“Public cooperation remains crucial in our fight against criminal elements,” Commissioner Orutugu said. “We encourage citizens to promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to the nearest police station.”
The rescued victims, whose identities are being withheld for security reasons, are reported to be receiving medical attention and counselling following their ordeal.
This incident comes as state authorities have intensified efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across Anambra, with increased patrols and community policing initiatives being implemented throughout the region.
Security experts have highlighted the importance of the multi-agency approach demonstrated in this operation, noting that collaboration between different security outfits often yields better results in combating organised criminal activities.
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