Operatives of the Police-led Joint Security Team in Aguata, Anambra State, successfully rescued a 26-year-old female kidnap victim following a fierce gun battle with armed hoodlums on the night of July 12, 2025.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operatives from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Aguata were on a routine night patrol around Amaokpala when they encountered a gang of armed criminals.
“The hoodlums opened fire upon sighting the patrol team,” Ikenga said. “Our operatives tactically returned fire, leading to a gun duel that lasted approximately 40 minutes.”
During the operation, one of the assailants was fatally wounded and later confirmed dead at a nearby hospital. The body has since been deposited at the morgue for preservation.
In a major breakthrough, the team also rescued a female kidnap victim who was immediately given medical attention and debriefed. Police say preparations are underway to reunite her safely with her family.
Items recovered from the scene include:
- One pump-action gun
- Eleven live cartridges
- One ash-coloured Toyota Camry (Reg. No. Lagos-EPE-208-FK)
- One police belt
- One carton of Chelsea sachet alcoholic drink
- One Zenith Bank ATM card
- One axe
- One small Tecno mobile phone
- One packet of cigarettes
- Assorted charms
- ₦2,700 in cash
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD, praised the operatives for their bravery and professionalism during the operation.
“The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to rid Anambra State of all criminal elements,” CP Orutugu stated, adding that efforts to apprehend fleeing members of the gang are ongoing.
The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.
