A policeman has been killed as suspected kidnappers battle Police Operatives to kidnap some Very Important People (VIPs) in Enugu State.
The Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), a Deputy Superintendent of Police, Daniel Ndukwe, emphasized that it foiled the kidnap and killed two kidnappers in the process.
According to Ndukwe, on the evening of the 3rd of September, there was an attempt to kidnap some road users at Ogbeke-Nike, along Ugwogo-Nike/Opi/Nsukka road.
He added: “The hoodlums had blocked the road and shot sporadically, before the Operatives, some of whom were on VIPs escort duty, gallantly responded. Two of the miscreants were neutralised on the spot, while many others escaped into the forest with fatal gunshot wounds. One AK-47 rifle with two magazines, 82 and 16 rounds of 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm calibres of live ammunition respectively, one cutlass, two mobile phones and other incriminating exhibits, were recovered from the hoodlums.”
The image noted that one of the Operatives who sustained a gunshot wound in the ensuing gun duel was taken to the hospital and later confirmed dead by doctors on the morning of 4th September.
Ndukwe said: “His remains have been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy. The Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, while mourning the unfortunate loss of the Operative, whom he described as gallant even in death, has commended the entire Police personnel, the Neighbourhood Watch Group and Forest Guards involved in the operation for their courage and job well done.
“He reiterates the firm commitment of the Police to ruthlessly deal with, and rid the State of unrepentant criminals, especially those involved in violent crimes.
“The CP, therefore, encourages citizens of the State to remain security conscious, law-abiding and promptly report criminals and individuals found with bullet wounds to the nearest Police Station.”
