Police Rescue 4 Kidnap Victims In Imo, Arrest 17 For Murder

Imo and Ebonyi State Police Command in a series of operations have secured the release of four victims of kidnapping while arresting 17 murder suspects.

The Force Headquarters Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Sunday, said men of the commands effected the arrests on Saturday.

He disclosed that two kidnappers were neutralized, while one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine and 21 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition were recovered from the kidnappers.

Adejobi assured that Police remained resolute to combatting heinous crimes. He assured members of the public that efforts to rid off criminal elements from our society would continue relentlessly, ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

“The operation was carried out on Saturday, January 4th 2025, after the operatives received a distress call reporting the abduction of 4 persons in Umuokanne, Ohaji LGA, Imo State. The police operatives swiftly swung into action, locating the criminal hideout and engaging the kidnappers in a fierce gun-duel, during which 2 of the kidnappers were neutralized.

“The success of the operation led to the rescue of the 4 victims and the recovery of 1 Ak-47 rifle, 1 Ak-47 magazine and 21 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition,” he said.

17 Murder Suspects Arrested In Ebonyi

Adejobi also disclosed that the 17 murder suspects were arrested in Enioha Itim village, in Afikpo local government area of Ebonyi State for the alleged murder of one Uromchi Okorocha.

He said Okorocha was accused by local youths for alleged killing several indiviuals in the village through witchcraft and other spiritual means.

Police spokesman explained that the 17 suspects apprehended the deceased, “but instead of handing him over to legal authorities and committing to the rule of law, they decided to take laws into their hands, becoming judge, jury and executioner.

“The police operatives of the Uwanna Division mobilized tactical teams to the scene on a rescue mission but the angry mob had already killed and burned Mr Okorocha before the arrival of the Police team.”

IGP Warns Against Jungle Justice

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in his reaction to the crime, warned citizens against taking the law into their hands.

Egbetokun reiterated the commitment of the Police to ensuring public safety and justice for victims of violent crimes.

He urged citizens to collaborate with Police by providing useful information may assist in eradicating crime in the country.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, condemns this act of jungle justice in totality. Citizens are once again urged to refrain from taking laws into their hands and report any suspected criminal activities to the nearest police division or formation around them for necessary action.

“The efforts of the police are constant reaffirmations of the dedication to bring to book perpetrators of heinous acts of crime in our societies.

“The IGP reiterates the unwavering commitment of the Force to public safety and justice for victims of violent crimes. Citizens are encouraged to engage with security agencies, providing any information that may assist in the ultimate goal of creating a utopian society for all. The Nigeria Police Force remains ever committed to ensuring a safe environment for everyone,” it added.