Enugu State, Nigeria — July 18, 2025: The Enugu State Police Command has recorded significant progress in its ongoing crackdown on kidnapping and violent crimes. The Command announced on Thursday that operatives have neutralized one kidnap suspect and arrested five others during operations conducted between July 5 and 16, 2025.

In a statement, Command spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, detailed that the operations led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and the recovery of ₦10 million ransom, an AK-47 rifle with two live rounds, a Toyota Corolla vehicle, and other incriminating evidence.

How the Arrests Were Made

On July 16, 2025, operatives from Okpuje Division, supported by the Neighbourhood Watch, Forest Guards, and local hunters, responded to a distress call about suspected armed kidnappers sighted in the Okpuje-Ani forest in Nsukka LGA.

“Upon arrival, the armed suspects engaged the team. The operatives returned fire, killing one suspect while others fled. An AK-47 rifle loaded with two rounds was recovered,” Ndukwe stated.

Additionally, on the same day, the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad arrested 23-year-old Aliyu Adamu at Ugwu-Onyeama, Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. Adamu confessed to participating in several kidnappings and admitted he was recruited from Awka, Anambra State, for criminal activities in Enugu State.

Siblings Caught Splitting ₦10m Ransom

In another breakthrough, on July 15, the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad apprehended two sisters, Juliet Chukwu (39) and Nancy Chukwu (40), during an intelligence-led operation.

“The sisters, who falsely claimed to be law enforcement officers, were caught while sharing the ₦10 million ransom collected from their kinsman, whom they conspired to kidnap,” the statement revealed.

Their victim was rescued unharmed, while the Toyota Corolla belonging to one of the suspects was seized.

Earlier Arrests in 9th Mile Corner

Earlier on July 5, operatives arrested Usman Musa (20) and Musa Zaria (24), both from Kogi State, during an operation at Okemmou, 9th Mile Corner in Udi LGA. The suspects were in possession of clothing and a wristwatch belonging to two male kidnap victims abducted on July 4, who later confirmed the suspects’ involvement.

Police Assurances

Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, praised the operatives for their bravery, professionalism, and swift responses, reiterating the Command’s commitment to maintaining public safety.

“The CP reassures residents of Enugu State of the police's unwavering determination to rid the state of criminal elements,” Ndukwe affirmed.

The police confirmed that all arrested suspects will be arraigned in court after investigations are concluded, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices still at large.