Police kill kidnap suspect in shootout on highway

Police operatives in Enugu State have foiled a kidnapping attempt along the Adani–Nsukka Road, killing one armed suspect and recovering an AK-47 rifle after a fierce early-morning gun battle with suspected kidnappers.

The confrontation, our correspondent gathered, occurred around 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 18, at the Ngene-Ukwu axis of the highway, when officers from the Adani Division, working with members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group, intercepted the suspects as they allegedly emerged from a nearby bush to abduct occupants of a passing vehicle.

Confirming the incident on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said, “During the exchange of gunfire, one of the suspects was neutralised, while an AK-47 rifle loaded with two rounds of live ammunition was recovered.”

Police said the suspects opened fire upon sighting the operatives, triggering a shootout that forced other members of the gang to flee into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.

“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, but the operatives responded with superior firepower, leading to the neutralisation of one of the kidnappers,” the command said, adding that the remaining suspects escaped with varying degrees of injuries.

The police said a manhunt is underway to arrest the fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network behind the attempted abduction.

“Efforts have been intensified to trace, identify, and arrest the fleeing suspects, as well as dismantle the entire criminal network,” the statement added.

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Residents and healthcare workers in the area were urged to assist security agencies by reporting anyone with suspicious gunshot wounds.

“Members of the public, particularly residents and healthcare providers, are urged to promptly report anyone presenting with gunshot wounds or suspicious injuries,” the police said.

Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Giwa, praised the officers for their “gallantry and professionalism” and reassured residents of the police command’s commitment to tackling violent crime in the state.

He said the police and other security agencies remain determined to “rid Enugu State of violent criminal elements and ensure the continued safety and security of all residents.”