David Awoyode
The Abia State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police Danladi Isa, confirmed that operatives raided a notorious kidnapper’s den at Ikot Ukpon village in Obot Akara LGA, Akwa Ibom State, following credible intelligence.
Ambush and Gun Battle
According to a statement by DSP Maureen Chinaka, spokesperson for the command, the police were ambushed by other gang members while exiting the hideout. The attempted rescue led to a gun duel, during which six suspects sustained fatal gunshot wounds as they tried to escape. They died while being rushed to the hospital.
Officers Injured, Others on the Run
Two police officers were injured during the exchange of fire and are receiving treatment. Several other suspects fled with gunshot wounds, prompting a joint manhunt with the Akwa Ibom Police Command to track them down.
Weapons and Charms Recovered
Recovered items from the scene include:
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Two AK-47 rifles
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57 rounds of live ammunition
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One locally-made pistol
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Six magazines
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A large bag of suspected charms
Link to High-Profile Crimes
Police investigations linked the gang to major violent crimes in Abia State, including:
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The March 4, 2025, kidnapping of the Sobaz Oil and Gas Director along Azumini Road, Ukwa West LGA — which resulted in the deaths of ASP Tanko Naptip of Rivers Command and Anayo Ukwu.
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The murder of Mr. Chiedozie Confidence Chijioke, Managing Director of Dozzman Filling Station.
The command stressed that operations are ongoing to ensure justice for victims and the complete dismantling of the gang.
