The Abia State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against violent crime, neutralizing six suspected kidnappers and recovering arms and other exhibits during a raid on their hideout.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives stormed a kidnappers’ camp at Ikot Ukpon Village, Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, around 8:30 p.m. The raid was linked to the March 4, 2025 abduction of the Director of Sobaz Oil and Gas along Azumiri Road, Ukwa East, Abia State — an incident in which ASP Tanko Naptip of the CTU Rivers Command, Anayo Ukwu, and the Managing Director of DozzMan Filling Station, Mr. Chidozie Confidence Chijioke, were killed.
During the operation, police recovered two AK-47 rifles, 57 live rounds of ammunition, one locally made pistol, six magazines, and a large bag containing charms and other spiritual items. Six suspects were initially arrested, but while being escorted from the camp, they attempted to escape during an ambush by their accomplices. They sustained gunshot injuries in the ensuing gun battle and were confirmed dead en route to the hospital. Several other gang members fled with bullet wounds.
Two police officers were also injured in the confrontation and are currently receiving treatment. The Command said further combing of the area is underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and ensure the zone is cleared of criminal activity.
The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to deny criminals any hiding place. He pledged continued collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Police Command to bring other fleeing gang members to justice.
CP Isa also urged residents to remain vigilant and assist security agencies by reporting suspicious persons or individuals with bullet wounds to the nearest police station. The Command’s emergency hotlines remain open: 08035415405, 08079210003, 08079210004, 0807921000.
