Police arrest terror suspects, rescue kidnapped victims in operations
In a robust display of law enforcement effectiveness, the Nigeria Police Force has successfully conducted multiple operations across the country, resulting in the arrest of three suspected terrorists, recovery of arms and ransom cash, and the rescue of kidnapped victims.
As revealed in a statement on Sunday by the Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in Imo State, on April 17, 2025, police operatives working alongside local vigilante groups raided a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Okigwe LGA.
The suspects, Onyekaba Ikenna Innocent 21, Ugwu Ikenna 31, and Ofor Kasarachi 37, engaged the police in a gun battle before being apprehended.
Authorities seized one AK-47 rifle, two pump-action guns, 18 live cartridges, laptops, mobile devices, and ₦10.3 million believed to be ransom.
Meanwhile, in Edo State, police swiftly responded to the kidnapping of 10 students en route to Backcock University for the GYC Africa conference on April 16, 2025.
A fierce gun duel ensued with the kidnappers, resulting in one kidnapper neutralized and all 10 students rescued unharmed. Additionally, two other kidnapped victims were freed on April 18 from their residence in Oluoke community.
“In another development in Edo State, following the news of the abduction of 10 students who were on their way to Backcock University for the annual GYC Africa conference on the 16th of April 2025, police operatives of the State Command immediately picked up the trail of these kidnappers, and upon encounter, engaged them in a fierce gun duel.
“One of the kidnappers was neutralized in the process, and the 10 victims were rescued unhurt. Similarly, on the 18th of April 2025 at about 21:15hrs, the command operatives also successfully rescued 2 other kidnapped victims who had been kidnapped on the 14th of April 2025, at their residence in Oluoke community of the State,” the statement reads partly.
However, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, lauded the courage and professionalism of the officers involved.
He further noted that the force remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will continue to work tirelessly to combat crime in all its forms.
The IGP reaffirmed the Force’s dedication to protecting lives and property while respecting human rights.
