The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing operations against criminal elements across the country, with the rescue of 12 kidnapped victims, recovery of over N10 million in cash, arms and ammunition, and arrest of suspected terrorists.

According to a statement issued on Sunday, April 20, 2025, by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operations were carried out in different states, including Imo and Edo, where police operatives, in collaboration with local vigilantes, executed coordinated offensives against bandits and kidnappers.

In Imo State, on April 17, 2025, at about 1:02 a.m., officers acting on credible intelligence raided a suspected hideout of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), located on Cameron Street in Ubahu, Okigwe Local Government Area. A fierce gun battle ensued as the suspects opened fire on the operatives. Three suspects—Onyekaba Ikenna Innocent (21), Ugwu Ikenna (31), and Ofor Kasarachi (37)—were arrested during the operation.

Items recovered at the scene included an AK-47 rifle, two pump-action guns, 18 live cartridges, mobile phones, laptops, and ?10.3 million in cash suspected to be proceeds of kidnapping.

In a related development in Edo State, police officers successfully rescued 10 students kidnapped on their way to Babcock University for the GYC Africa Conference on April 16. The operatives engaged the abductors in a gun duel, neutralizing one of the suspects and securing the release of all the students unhurt.

Further in Edo, on April 18 at about 9:15 p.m., the police rescued two more victims who were abducted from their residence in the Oluoke community on April 14.

Commending the courage and professionalism of the officers involved, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, reiterated the Force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians. He assured that the police would continue to intensify efforts in tackling crime across the country.

The police urged members of the public to continue providing timely and useful information to support ongoing security efforts. (By PRNigeria)