A kidnapping attempt in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State was thwarted by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force following a fierce gun battle that led to the arrest of three suspects and the rescue of a victim.
The suspects, identified as Henry Efa Otu (24), Lawrence Ita Inyang (46), and Umoh Ekpo (46), were intercepted by the Surveillance Team of the Uwanse Police Division while attempting to abduct one Nkereuwem Peter, a 38-year-old resident of No. 35 Eneobong Avenue, Calabar South.
According to the Cross River State Police Command, the foiled abduction occurred in the Unwanse area. The swift response of officers followed a credible tip-off that led to a prompt and strategic police deployment. During the exchange of gunfire, the suspects were subdued and taken into custody.
Recovered from the scene were two locally made pistols and a live cartridge, which police believe were intended for use in the foiled operation.
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Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Irene Ugbo, said the successful arrest underscores the command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and rapid response tactics aimed at curbing violent crimes, especially kidnapping, in the state.
SP Ugbo also quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, as saying the force under his command will not tolerate criminal gangs threatening the peace and safety of law-abiding citizens. The CP reiterated that he is under strict directive from the Force Headquarters to drastically reduce criminal activity in Cross River State.
He further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing the police and other security agencies with timely and actionable information, noting that community cooperation is critical in ensuring the sustained success of crime prevention efforts.
The incident has sparked commendation from residents of Calabar South, who hailed the Police for their bravery and urged continued surveillance in known crime hotspots.
