The Anambra State Police Command has foiled a suspected kidnapping attempt along the Ogbakuba–Ossomala Road in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state, rescuing victims from kidnappers.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, the Spokesman for the state Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the armed men, reportedly wielding AK-47 rifles, blocked the road and opened fire sporadically in what appeared to be an attempt to abduct unsuspecting road users.
Ikenga said the swift response of the joint security operatives disrupted the suspected criminals’ activities and successfully foiled the attempted abduction.
He said, “The Anambra State Police Command has foiled an alleged kidnap attempt on innocent road users along the Ogbakuba–Ossomala Road at about 1:15 pm on Tuesday, following the timely intervention of a joint security team conducting ongoing offensive operations against armed secessionist groups in the area.
“Preliminary information indicates that the armed men, reportedly wielding AK-47 rifles, blocked the road and opened fire sporadically in what appeared to be an attempt to abduct unsuspecting road users.
“The swift response of the joint security operatives disrupted the suspected criminals’ activities and successfully foiled the attempted abduction.”
Ikenga said further developments will be communicated as necessary.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has commended the operatives for their prompt intervention and professionalism in preventing the suspected criminals from carrying out their alleged mission.
The Commissioner reiterated the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led, coordinated, and sustained security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, preventing kidnappings, and safeguarding lives and property across the State.
He assured residents and road users that security operations in the area are ongoing. Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies, and cooperate with operatives as efforts continue to ensure the safety of all road users.