The Abia State Police Command has made a major stride in its ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime with the successful dismantling of a notorious kidnapping ring in Ukwa West Local Government Area.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, shared with ABN TV, the operation took place on June 30, 2025, around 5:30 PM, following credible intelligence. A joint tactical team stormed a kidnappers’ hideout in Umuiku Obete Village, Ukwa West LGA, connected to a series of abductions along Umuozo Village, Uratta Road, off Port Harcourt Road.
Upon arrival, the gang engaged the police in a fierce shootout. Five suspects were neutralised during the exchange, while others fled into the surrounding forest.
Items recovered from the hideout include six AK-47 rifles, 335 rounds of live ammunition, 14 magazines, five mobile phones, three cutlasses, five tactical jackets, an axe, a boot, a polo charm, and a double-barrel long gun. The police say efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
In a separate operation on August 2, 2025, officers from the Arochukwu Divisional Headquarters recovered another double-barrel long gun in Amuvi Village, Arochukwu. Investigations into that recovery are still in progress.
Reacting to both incidents, the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, reiterated the Command’s commitment to eliminating criminal elements across the state. He encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report any individuals with gunshot wounds or suspicious behaviour to the authorities promptly.
The Commissioner also underscored the need for public cooperation and reminded citizens to use the Command’s emergency contact lines for rapid response.
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