Police-led joint security operatives in Anambra State have rescued a Nigerian citizen based in South Africa who was abducted by armed kidnappers in Orumba South Local Government Area of the state.
The rescue occurred in the early hours of January 15, 2026, when operatives attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Aguata, were on routine visibility patrol around the Isulo axis of Orumba South LGA.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the victim was intercepted and secured during the patrol after he escaped from his captors.
According to Ikenga, the victim disclosed that he is a native of Obinagu–Isikweachi in Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State but is currently based in South Africa. He was reportedly abducted on January 1, 2026, from his hometown by a six-man gang of armed men who allegedly wore face masks during the operation.
“The victim informed the operatives that his abductors demanded a ransom of Forty Million Naira (₦40 million) from his wife and other family members,” Ikenga said.
He added that the victim managed to flee from the kidnappers’ hideout before encountering the joint security team, leading to his successful rescue.
Following the operation, Ikenga said the rescued man was thoroughly debriefed by the police and has since been reunited with his family.
Meanwhile, the police spokesman disclosed that security operatives are intensifying efforts to dismantle the criminal network behind the abduction.
“The operatives are currently working with credible and actionable intelligence provided by the victim to locate and dislodge the criminal hideout in the area and apprehend those responsible,” he stated.
Reaffirming the Command’s stance on crime prevention, Ikenga said the Anambra State Police Command remains committed to proactive and intelligence-driven policing across the state.
“The Command will continue to sustain visibility patrols and proactive security measures to ensure the safety of lives and property in Anambra State. Further developments will be communicated in due course,” he said.
The incident underscores the role of routine patrols in disrupting criminal activities and strengthening public confidence in security operations across the state.
