The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment to tackling violent crimes, especially kidnapping, through strategic and technology-led policing efforts nationwide.
This assurance follows successful intelligence-led operations in Enugu and Ogun States, which led to the rescue of four kidnapped victims, the neutralization of three armed suspects, and the recovery of ransom funds, firearms, and other criminal evidence.
Rescue Operation in Enugu
On July 16, 2025, police operatives in Enugu, working alongside local security units, responded to a distress call from Okpuje-Ani community in Nsukka LGA. The joint team engaged armed kidnappers hiding in a nearby forest. During the exchange, one suspect was neutralized, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. Officers recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with live ammunition at the scene.
Later the same day, the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad arrested Aliyu Adamu, 23, along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. Adamu confessed to participating in multiple abductions and admitted to being recruited from Anambra State for criminal operations in Enugu.
Also in Enugu, two women—Juliet Chukwu (39) and Nancy Chukwu (40)—were arrested while sharing a ₦10 million ransom they collected after conspiring to kidnap their relative. The victim was rescued unharmed, and the operatives recovered a Toyota Corolla vehicle, the ransom money, and evidence linked to the crime.
Swift Action in Ogun State
In Ogun State, following the kidnapping of three individuals along the Ajebo axis under Owode Egba Division, tactical teams swiftly responded. On July 17, 2025, at around 4:00 a.m., police operatives tracked the suspects using advanced technology and engaged them in a gun battle on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Two suspects were neutralized, and all three kidnapped victims were rescued without injury.
Recovered from the scene were:
One AK-47 rifle
139 rounds of ammunition
A cutlass, padlock, and chain
₦1.23 million in suspected ransom funds
Mobile phones used in ransom negotiations
Police Chief Commends Tactical Teams
IGP Egbetokun praised the officers’ professionalism and bravery, emphasizing the Police Force’s renewed commitment to intelligence-based policing and technological innovation. He assured Nigerians that efforts to dismantle criminal syndicates are ongoing and the Force remains dedicated to restoring safety and public confidence nationwide.
