In a decisive series of intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling kidnapping syndicates, the Enugu State Police Command has neutralised a notorious armed suspect, arrested five others, rescued a kidnapped victim, and recovered an AK-47 rifle, live ammunition, a vehicle, and ₦10 million ransom cash.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the operations, conducted between July 5 and 16, 2025, were part of sustained efforts by the police to combat violent crimes and restore public confidence across the state.
“On July 16, at about 3:00 p.m., operatives of the Okpuje Police Division, working in synergy with the Neighbourhood Watch, Forest Guards, and local hunters, stormed a forest in the Okpuje-Ani community in Nsukka LGA following a credible tip-off,” Ndukwe disclosed.
“They were confronted by armed kidnappers. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, one of the suspects was neutralised, while others escaped. An AK-47 rifle loaded with two live rounds was recovered from the scene.”
In a related breakthrough on the same day, the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad arrested Aliyu Adamu (23), a suspected kidnapper, at Ugwu-Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
“The suspect confessed to having participated in multiple kidnappings and admitted being invited from Awka, Anambra State, by another member of the gang who is currently at large,” the statement revealed.
The following day, on July 15, the Command’s Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad arrested two female siblings, Juliet Chukwu (39) and Nancy Chukwu (40), who falsely claimed to be law enforcement officers.
The women were arrested while sharing a ransom of ₦10 million, which they had extorted from their kinsman after kidnapping him on July 14. The victim was successfully rescued unhurt, while the ransom money and a Toyota Corolla vehicle were recovered from the suspects.
Earlier, on July 5, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad had arrested two male suspects — Usman Musa (20) and Musa Zaria (24), both of Kogi State — during a tactical raid at Okemmou, 9th Mile Corner in Udi LGA.
The suspects were caught in possession of personal items belonging to two kidnap victims abducted the previous day. The victims later confirmed both the items and identities of the suspects during the investigation.
While investigations are ongoing, all arrested suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of preliminary inquiries.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to apprehend other fleeing suspects linked to these criminal syndicates.
Commending the officers involved, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa hailed their professionalism, courage, and swift action. “These successful operations are a strong message to criminal elements that Enugu State is not a safe haven for their activities,” he declared.
“We remain fully committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring that no space is given to those who threaten peace and security in the state.”SP Daniel Ndukwe reiterated the Command’s appeal to citizens to remain vigilant and support security efforts through timely and credible information.
