The Enugu State Police Command, on Tuesday, revealed that it had rescued 28 individuals who were kidnapped and arrested 10 suspects in a series of well-coordinated security operations carried out across different parts of the state.
Commissioner of Police Mamman Giwa, in a statement released through the command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said the operations were aimed at stamping out violent criminal activities in Enugu and surrounding areas.
According to the police, a total of 28 kidnap victims were freed and 10 male suspects taken into custody. Several weapons, vehicles, motorcycles, and cash—believed to be connected to ransom payments—were also recovered during the crackdowns.
“These efforts were made possible through joint action by the police, Neighbourhood Watch, Forest Guards, and members of local communities,” Giwa said.
One of the major incidents took place on May 18 along the Umumba-Ndiuno-Aguoba Road in Ezeagu Local Government Area. During a bush-combing operation, four kidnapped victims—two men and two women—were rescued. Four suspects believed to be involved were arrested and are currently being questioned.
In another event that same evening, officers from the 9th Mile Division responded to a distress call about an attempted kidnapping. A mob had captured and beaten one of the suspects before police rescued and rearrested him. The suspect, who was badly injured, is now receiving medical treatment and is under police watch.
A separate operation was conducted on May 17 in a forest near Okpuje, Enugu State, bordering Kogi State. Security forces intercepted two men carrying ₦150,000 and ₦70,000 in cash—allegedly meant as ransom.
They also had loaves of bread and drinks, believed to have been demanded by kidnappers. During the raid, officers faced armed resistance but overpowered the criminals. The suspects fled, abandoning the victims and a pump-action shotgun with live cartridges.
On May 14, a large group of 21 kidnapped individuals were rescued in the Amaka-Okpodu area of Kogi State. The victims had reportedly been taken four days earlier on their way back from a traditional wedding. Intelligence efforts led to the arrest of five suspects. Three guns, a minibus, and four motorcycles were also recovered.
In yet another case, the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad retrieved a victim’s Toyota Camry on May 13. The man had been kidnapped along the Enugu/Port-Harcourt Expressway. A white Toyota Corolla and a Lexus 330 Jeep believed to have been used by the kidnappers were also found.
Commissioner Giwa praised his officers and all collaborating security agents for their efforts. He also thanked community members who assisted in the rescue operations.
He urged the public to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and support law enforcement in the continued fight against crime.
“Residents are urged to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative with police and other law enforcement authorities,” Giwa stated.
