Operatives of the Abia State Police Command have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crime, killing six suspected kidnappers linked to the deadly March 4, 2025 abduction along Azumiri Road, Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.
The attack, which claimed the lives of ASP Tanko Naptip of the Counter-Terrorism Unit in Rivers State, Anayo Ukwu, and the Managing Director of DozzMan Filling Station, Mr. Chidozie Confidence Chijioke, had sparked outrage and renewed calls for stronger security action in the South-East.
In a statement released on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka, said credible intelligence led operatives to a notorious hideout at Ikot Ukpon Village, Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The operation, conducted at about 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, uncovered a cache of arms and spiritual paraphernalia used by the gang.
Recovered items include two AK-47 rifles, 57 rounds of live ammunition, six magazines, one locally made pistol, and a large bag filled with charms and other spiritual objects believed to have been used for fortification.
Chinaka explained that as the police team exited the hideout, they came under heavy fire from other gang members attempting to rescue their arrested accomplices. A fierce gun battle ensued.
“The six arrested suspects, while attempting to escape, sustained gunshot injuries and died on the way to the hospital for medical attention. Other members of the gang fled with bullet wounds,” she said, adding that two police officers were also injured and are receiving treatment.
The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, commended the bravery of the operatives and vowed that the command would sustain the offensive until the region is cleansed of criminal gangs.
“There will be no hiding place for criminals in Abia State. Every unrepentant criminal will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” Isa declared.
Meanwhile, police operatives are combing adjoining communities in search of fleeing suspects believed to be armed and wounded. Residents of Ukwa East and Obot Akara LGAs have been urged to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could lead to further arrests.
This latest development underscores the growing sophistication of kidnapping syndicates in the South-East, who often combine firepower with traditional charms, while also highlighting the intensified counter-offensive by security agencies to dismantle such networks.
