Reacting to the development, Governor Alex Otti lauded the Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, and his team for their swift and strategic response, which ensured the safe return of the victims.
Speaking at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Umuahia, Otti expressed relief that no victim sustained injuries despite the exchange of gunfire.
“We thank God that they were all rescued alive and healthy. Anything could have happened in a gunfight, but the professionalism of our security forces ensured a successful outcome,” Otti said.
Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to making Abia a no-go zone for criminals. He emphasized the importance of modern technology in fighting crime and assured residents that the state would continue upgrading its security infrastructure.
“For us in Abia, security is critical. We will not yield an inch of our land to criminals. Our government is fully committed to leveraging technology to enhance policing, and soon, we will establish a command and control center in the state capital,” Otti declared.
As part of immediate measures to dismantle criminal hideouts, the governor directed the demolition of a bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma LGA, where the kidnappers held their victims. He also ordered the arrest and prosecution of the house owner.
Additionally, Otti instructed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to summon the traditional ruler of the area for questioning, questioning how such criminal activities could persist unnoticed in the community.
Providing details of the operation, CP Isa revealed that the victims were abducted on March 9 along New Umuahia Road in Obingwa LGA. They were taken to an undisclosed location by armed men who had already kidnapped another victim.
“The tactical team, using advanced technology, tracked them to Osisioma. In the ensuing gun battle, six of the kidnappers were neutralized, while others fled with bullet wounds. We are actively pursuing them and will ensure they face justice,” CP Isa stated.
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Recovered from the suspects were two AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and 32 rounds of ammunition.
One of the rescued victims, who requested anonymity, described the harrowing five-day ordeal in captivity.
“We were kept in a small, windowless room with no ventilation. They took our phones and demanded ransom from our families. On Friday afternoon, after we had prayed, we suddenly heard gunshots. That was when the police stormed the building. They broke down the door and freed us,” he narrated.
He added that, despite their captivity, they could hear people moving around the house, including children and even a carpenter working next door—raising questions about how the kidnappers operated unnoticed.
Expressing gratitude to the governor and the police, the victim praised their swift action and use of technology in tracking down the criminals.
Governor Otti was joined at a press conference by key government officials, including Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Commissioner for Information Prince Okay Kanu, and Commissioner for Trade and Commerce Mr. Chibueze Nwokocha.
With this latest victory against kidnappers, the Otti administration is reinforcing its stance on security, sending a clear message that Abia will not be a safe haven for criminals.
