Security Operatives Rescue Three Kidnap Victims, Recover Part Of Ransom In Imo

Three kidnapped victims have been rescued unhurt in a coordinated security operation carried out across several communities in Imo State, while part of the ransom payment made by victims’ families was also recovered.

The operation, led in collaboration with the Nigeria Army 34 Artillery Brigade, Imo State Homeland Security, and the Amakohia Ubi Security Network, followed intelligence and technical support provided by the Safe City Volunteer Team.

According to security advocate, Harrison Gwamnishu, the operation covered Ogbaku, Ejemekwuru, Amakohia Ubi, Ndegwu Okuku, and Ireti communities, where suspected kidnappers have reportedly established hideouts.

The kidnappers were traced to a farmland in Ndegwu Okuku, where security operatives engaged them in a gun battle. The suspects reportedly fled the scene, abandoning three kidnapped victims they had held captive while awaiting ransom payments.

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It was gathered that five persons were originally abducted by the gang. One victim had earlier regained freedom after ransom was paid, another was allegedly killed by the kidnappers, while the remaining three victims were rescued alive during the operation.

The rescued victims reportedly told security operatives that the kidnappers are eight in number and speak Fulani. One of the victims disclosed that he was abducted last Friday along Port Harcourt Road and forced to trek through Ejemekwuru before being taken to the hideout.

Security sources further alleged that members of the gang are scattered across the affected communities and other parts of Owerri West Local Government Area.

Gwamnishu commended all security agencies and local volunteers involved in the operation and called on the Imo State Government to urgently address the growing activities of armed bandits taking refuge in some communities within the state.