The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of a kidnapped electrician alongside the arrest of three suspects linked to the abduction in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.
According to the Command, the operation was carried out by a combined team of the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu and members of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group in Nnobi, following credible intelligence. The team reportedly stormed a forest hideout located in Awuda, Nnobi, on the evening of April 18, 2026.
In a statement released on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the operatives raided a bush camp at Umuezeala Awuda Village where the suspects were allegedly operating.
Three male suspects were apprehended during the operation. They were identified as Chidalu Obi, 25; Chichebem Ojenigbo, 26; and Chikannechukwu Eze, 20.
The police also succeeded in freeing the victim, an electrician, who was reportedly deceived by the suspects under the pretence of offering him employment.
Upon arrival at the arranged meeting point, the victim was allegedly ambushed, forcibly blindfolded at gunpoint, and taken into the bush, where he was held hostage.
Recovered from the suspects were a locally fabricated Beretta pistol and a cash sum of ₦469,000 believed to be ransom proceeds.
Preliminary findings indicated that the ransom had already been paid and was allegedly transferred into a SportyBet account connected to one of the suspects, Chidalu Obi.
During interrogation, the suspects were said to have confessed to their involvement in the crime.
The Police Command, while reacting to the development, reaffirmed its determination to rid the state of criminal elements and strengthen public safety.
It further appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and reliable information, noting that community cooperation remains critical in combating kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
