Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have killed a suspected kidnapper and rescued a victim in Ihiala Local Government Area.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operation was carried out by a joint security team comprising the police, military, and Ihiala vigilante during a security patrol on Monday.
“On the evening of March 24, 2025, a joint security team intercepted a black shuttle bus with registration number RSH 255MS moving suspiciously. When the operatives attempted to stop the vehicle, the armed occupants opened fire, leading to a gun duel,” Ikenga stated.
During the exchange, one of the kidnappers was neutralized, while four others escaped with bullet wounds into a nearby bush, abandoning the vehicle. Upon searching the shuttle, the security team found a blindfolded victim tied at the hands and legs, with his mouth sealed.
The victim was successfully rescued, given first aid, and debriefed by the police. The recovered vehicle is now in police custody, and efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
In response to this incident, the police have urged hospitals and medical facilities to report any individual seeking treatment for bullet wounds or injuries of a suspicious nature to the nearest police station.
“The command remains committed to maintaining security dominance through sustained patrols and targeted operations,” Ikenga added.