The Abia State Police Command has announced the killing of six suspected kidnappers during a raid on a hideout in Ikot Ukpon village, Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
According to the command, the operation was carried out after intelligence revealed the location of the criminal gang. Officers stormed the den on Thursday, leading to the deaths of the suspects.
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In a statement released on Friday by the spokesperson of the command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, it was disclosed that the operatives were ambushed by other members of the gang while leaving the camp. This led to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“Six of the arrested suspects, while attempting to escape, sustained gunshot injuries and died en route to the hospital for medical attention. Other members of the gang fled with bullet wounds. Meanwhile, two police officers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving medical attention,” DSP Chinaka stated.
The police confirmed that the area is still being combed in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, with efforts underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Recovered items from the scene included two AK-47 rifles, 57 rounds of ammunition, six magazines, one locally-made pistol, and a bag containing suspected charms.
The command also linked the gang to several violent crimes, including the March 4, 2025, abduction of the Director of Sobaz Oil and Gas along Azumini Road in Ukwa West, which resulted in the deaths of ASP Tanko Naptip of Rivers Command and Anayo Ukwu.
It further recalled that the same gang was responsible for the killing of the Managing Director of Dozzman Filling Station, Mr. Chiedozie Confidence Chijioke, a case that triggered intensified investigations and eventual tracking of the suspects.
Troops Eliminate Seven Bandits, Recover Motorcycles In Katsina Operation
Troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA have eliminated seven armed bandits and seized four motorcycles during a raid in Baba, Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared the update on Friday, said the operation was carried out on Thursday after the military received credible intelligence about the movement of bandits disturbing farming communities.
