The Imo State Police Command has rescued a kidnap victim during a security operation carried out in a forest located between the Nekede, Ihiagwa and Agbala communities in Owerri West Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, announced the development in a statement issued on Sunday, describing the operation as part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and improve public safety.
According to Okoye, the operation was personally led on Saturday by the Commissioner of Police, Mr Audu Bosso, in collaboration with local vigilance operatives.
He explained that the exercise was conducted in compliance with a directive from the Inspector-General of Police through the Deputy Inspector-General in charge of the South-East Zone.
“The operation aimed to strengthen internal security, dismantle criminal hideouts and deny criminals safe havens,” Okoye stated.
During the raid, security operatives rescued an injured kidnap victim identified as Mr Chinonaobi Uchegbulam, a resident of Ubaha Orodo, from the forest where he had reportedly been held captive.
The victim was immediately taken to a medical facility for treatment and is said to be responding well.
Okoye praised the officers and local security personnel who participated in the operation, commending their bravery, professionalism and dedication to duty.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks across the state.
According to him, the police will continue to intensify efforts to track down kidnappers and other violent criminals operating within Imo.
“The command remains committed to making Imo unsafe for kidnappers and other violent criminal groups,” he said.
The latest rescue operation forms part of ongoing security measures by the Imo State Police Command to improve safety, restore public confidence and deny criminal gangs the opportunity to operate within forests and other remote locations across the state.
