The Ebonyi State Police Command said its operatives rescued a kidnap victim, Thank-God Obasi, from a toilet in a hotel located in Ezzangbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area (LGA).

The command’s spokesman, SP Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this in a statement in Abakaliki on Sunday.

Mr Ukandu explained that Obasi was allegedly kidnapped, tied and locked up inside a hotel toilet.

He stated that the command also foiled an armed robbery attempt and neutralised one person during an operation along the Ehamufu–Nkalagu Road, Ishielu LGA.

He stated that the incidents occurred between  November 12 and 13.

 The statement read in part: “The command has recorded another significant breakthrough in its fight against criminal elements operating within the state. On November 12, operatives of the command, while on a patrol along the Ehamufu–Nkalagu Road, heard sporadic gunshots and distress screams.

 “The officers swiftly moved to the location and found one Ali Solomon struggling with three armed robbers, who were attempting to dispossess him of his motorcycle. Upon sighting the police, the hoodlums opened fire and fled. The operatives returned fire, neutralising one of the suspects and recovering one AK-47 rifle, loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition.

 “Similarly, on November 13, a kidnapping syndicate, terrorising the Ezzangbo axis in tOhaukwuhe  LGA, abducted one Obasi ThankGod, tied him up, and abandoned him inside a hotel toilet, while demanding ₦5 million ransom. Through diligent intelligence gathering, operatives of the command traced the hideout of the kidnappers, successfully rescued the victim, and arrested three suspects, namely: Uchenna Ogbozuru, Ebuka Ejiogu, and Chizoba Idenyi Ogwa.

“The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.”

Mr Ukandu added that the state Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, further reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of all the residents.

 The statement further quoted Mr Uche-Anya of assuring residents of the state that criminals would have no hiding place in the state.

(NAN)