The Nigeria Police Force has successfully executed coordinated operations in Enugu and Ogun States, resulting in the rescue of four kidnapped victims, the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers, and the recovery of millions of naira in ransom payments.
According to a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on July 20, 2025, the operations reflect the commitment of Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to curbing violent crimes, particularly kidnapping, across Nigeria.
Police, in collaboration with local security groups, responded to a distress call in Okpuje-Ani, Nsukka LGA. One armed suspect was neutralised during an exchange of gunfire; others escaped with injuries. Recovered: 1 AK-47 rifle with 2 live rounds.
A separate arrest on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway yielded a 23-year-old suspect, Aliyu Adamu, who confessed to multiple kidnappings.
Two female suspects, Juliet and Nancy Chukwu, were also arrested for conspiring to kidnap a male relative. They were caught dividing a ₦10 million ransom, down from an initial demand of ₦50 million. The victim was rescued safely. Recovered: Toyota Corolla and full ransom amount.
Additionally, a kidnapping case in Ajebo, under the Owode Egba Division, prompted a swift tactical response.
At 4:00 a.m. on July 20, police located the kidnappers and engaged them in a shootout along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Two suspects were neutralised; all three hostages were rescued unharmed.
Recovered, 1 AK-47 rifle, 139 rounds of ammunition, ₦1.235 million suspected ransom, Mobile phones used for negotiations and a Padlock, chain, and cutlass.
IGP Egbetokun commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, noting the operations demonstrate the police’s shift toward intelligence-led and tech-driven strategies. The Force reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring public trust in security institutions.
