Security operatives in Imo State have dealt a significant blow to criminal activities, successfully dismantling a notorious kidnapper’s hideout and rescuing four abducted victims. This operation, led by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Imo State Police Command (known as Tiger Base), was executed in partnership with military personnel. The joint team carried out the mission on October 4, 2024, in Ezioha, a remote area of the Mbaitoli Local Government.

The operation was described as “intelligence-led,” meaning it was based on gathered information about the kidnappers’ movements and hideouts. The security forces had been tracking the syndicate, which was responsible for the kidnapping of several people, including a prominent individual, along Orlu Road on September 29, 2024.

After identifying the location of the kidnappers’ camp, the police unit, in collaboration with military forces, planned a coordinated assault. As the security team advanced towards the kidnappers’ den, the armed criminals opened fire in a desperate attempt to defend their hideout. However, the well-prepared operatives swiftly responded to the attack, leading to an intense gunfight.

According to a press release by ASP Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer, the battle was fierce but brief. During the exchange of fire, one of the kidnappers was shot and killed. The other members of the group, realizing they were outmatched, fled into the surrounding forest. Many of the fleeing suspects were believed to have sustained serious injuries during the encounter.

After securing the area, the operatives safely rescued four hostages from the kidnappers’ camp. The rescued victims included Eze Okoro, a well-known figure from Orlu LGA, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Nwosu, both from Ohi in Mbaitolu LGA. The fourth victim, Bartholomew, a 56-year-old man from Benue State, was also freed during the operation.

The successful rescue of these individuals was a significant victory for the security forces, bringing relief to the families of the abductees, who had endured days of uncertainty and fear.

In addition to rescuing the hostages, the operatives also recovered a substantial number of weapons and equipment from the criminals’ camp. These items included:

• A pump-action gun
• Ten live cartridges
• Four expended cartridges
• Four locally made explosives
• A native bulletproof vest
• A Biafra flag
• Two Highlander SUVs
• An ash-colored Toyota Camry

The seizure of these items provided further evidence of the group’s involvement in organized crime, as they were well-armed and prepared for violent confrontations. The presence of homemade explosives and bulletproof vests pointed to their readiness to resist law enforcement efforts.

Reacting to the success of the operation, the Commissioner of Police for Imo State, CP Aboki Danjuma, praised the professionalism and bravery of the operatives involved. He noted that the swift response and effective execution of the operation showed the commitment of the Imo State Police to combating crime and protecting the lives of citizens.

Similarly, the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, commended the collaborative efforts of the police and military personnel, stressing the importance of continued cooperation between security agencies in tackling criminal activities across the state.

Both officials encouraged the security forces to maintain the momentum in their fight against kidnappings, armed robbery, and other forms of violent crime that have plagued the region. They also called on the public to provide useful information to assist in locating and apprehending the remaining suspects who escaped during the operation.

The success of this operation is a testament to the ongoing efforts by security agencies in Imo State to clamp down on criminal syndicates. Kidnapping for ransom has been a significant challenge in the region, with criminal groups often targeting both high-profile individuals and ordinary citizens. However, the recent collaboration between the police and military forces has yielded positive results in terms of reducing crime.

The swift and coordinated response to the kidnapping incident highlights the importance of intelligence-sharing and joint operations in combating crime effectively. It also sends a strong message to criminal groups operating in the area that law enforcement agencies are fully committed to rooting out crime and ensuring the safety of all residents.

This operation marks a major victory in the ongoing battle against kidnapping and organized crime in Imo State. The rescue of four victims and the dismantling of a kidnapper’s hideout will undoubtedly boost public confidence in the ability of security agencies to protect citizens. As the fight against crime continues, the authorities have pledged to keep the pressure on criminal syndicates, ensuring that Imo State becomes a safer place for everyone.