The Anambra State Police Command has foiled a suspected kidnapping attempt in Ogbaru Local Government Area, arresting four suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate and recovering a firearm, live ammunition and a vehicle allegedly used for criminal operations. Police said the operation followed a swift response to a distress call from residents.
Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have disrupted what authorities described as a planned kidnapping operation, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an intended victim.
According to the police, the suspects were intercepted during coordinated operations by officers attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, working alongside detectives from the Ogbaru Divisional Police Headquarters.
Police disclosed that the suspects allegedly attempted to abduct a female Point-of-Sale (POS) operator in Iyiowa, Odekpe, Atani, Ogbaru LGA.
The victim reportedly raised an alarm, attracting nearby residents, who immediately alerted security operatives. Responding officers arrived promptly, frustrated the kidnap attempt and arrested the suspects before they could flee.
During the operation, officers recovered a pump-action gun, live cartridges and a Toyota Camry with tinted windows believed to have been used by the suspected gang.
Police said the recovered items would form part of evidence as investigations continue into the activities of the syndicate and possible links to other kidnapping cases within and outside Anambra State.
The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and urged residents to continue providing timely information to security agencies.
He noted that community cooperation played a critical role in preventing what could have resulted in another successful abduction.
The latest operation adds to recent efforts by the Anambra State Police Command to dismantle kidnapping networks operating across the state. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be prosecuted upon conclusion of the inquiry.