Police operatives in Anambra State have rescued a 26-year-old kidnap victim and killed one suspected kidnapper during a fierce gun battle with armed criminals in the Amaokpala community of Aguata, Orumba Local Government Area.
The shootout, which took place late Saturday and lasted over an hour, ended with the recovery of arms, ammunition, and other incriminating items from the suspects.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the incident occurred during a night patrol by a joint security team from the Forward Operating Base in Aguata.
“Late on July 12, 2025, our operatives encountered a gang of armed hoodlums during a routine patrol around Amaokpala.
The suspects opened fire, and our men responded tactically, leading to a gunfight that lasted approximately 40 minutes,” Ikenga stated.
During the operation, one of the criminals was shot and later confirmed dead at a nearby hospital.
The police recovered a pump-action gun, 11 live cartridges, a Toyota Camry with Lagos registration number EPE-208-FK, a police belt, an axe, charms, and other personal items including a Tecno phone, cigarettes, and N2,700 in cash.
Also recovered at the scene were a carton of Chelsea alcoholic sachets and a Zenith Bank ATM card.
The rescued victim has been treated and debriefed in preparation for reunification with her family.
Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, praised the operatives for their bravery and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eradicating criminal elements from the state.
He assured residents that the police would continue to work relentlessly to maintain safety and security across Anambra.