Police Operatives attached to the Imo State Command, have rescued 4 kidnapped hostages and neutralized 2 of their captors.
The Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi stated this on Sunday.
According to him, operatives of the Command, upon receiving a distress call on Saturday, 4th January 2025 reporting the abduction of 4 persons in Umuokanne, Ohaji LGA, Imo State, swung into action a d located the criminal hideout.
In an ensuing fierce gun duel, 2 of the kidnappers were neutralized, leading 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.
In another development, on the 3rd of January 2025, Police operatives attached to the Ebonyi State Command arrested 17 suspects in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo LGA for the murder of one Uromchi Okorocha ‘m’, who was accused by local youths of being involved in the killing of several individuals through alleged witchcraft and spiritual means.
The suspects, having mobilized and apprehended the deceased, rather than hand him over to legal authorities and committing to the rule of law, took the law into heir hands and killed him before setting him ablaze.
The police operatives of the Uwanna Division mobilized tactical teams to the scene on a rescue mission, but only arrived after the dastardly act had been done.
While condemning the act of jungle justice in its entirety, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, urged citizens 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.
He reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Force to public safety and justice for victims of violent crimes, a d encouraged citizens to engage with security agencies, providing any information that may assist in the ultimate goal of creating a utopian society for all.
