The Abia State Police Command has carried out a major raid on criminal hideouts connected to the violent attack and kidnapping of the Director of Sobaz Oil and Gas, which took place on March 4, 2025, along Azumiri Road in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.
Reports gathered by PUNCH Online revealed that the kidnap incident was not only about abduction but also led to the tragic death of three people. Those who lost their lives were: Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Tanko Naptip from the Counter Terrorism Unit in Rivers State, Mr. Anayo Ukwu, and the Managing Director of DozzMan Filling Station, Mr. Chidozie Confidence Chijioke.
According to a statement released on Friday by the Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, the police acted after receiving credible and reliable intelligence information. With this intelligence, the command was able to trace the suspected kidnappers to Ikot Ukpon Village in Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. This operation was carried out on Thursday night at about 8:30 p.m.
Chinaka explained that during the raid, police officers successfully stormed the hideout and arrested six suspected kidnappers. In addition, they recovered a large cache of dangerous weapons and items.These included two AK-47 rifles, fifty-seven rounds of live ammunition, one locally made pistol, six magazines, and a big bag filled with charms and other spiritual items believed to be used by the criminals for protection or rituals.
However, the operation did not end smoothly. As the police operatives were leaving the hideout, they were suddenly ambushed by other members of the kidnapping gang who attempted to rescue their arrested partners. This led to a heavy exchange of gunfire between the police and the criminals.
In the process, the six arrested suspects, who tried to escape, were badly injured by gunshots and later died while being taken to the hospital for treatment.Other gang members who managed to flee the scene also sustained gunshot wounds, and the police believe they are currently on the run and hiding.
Unfortunately, two police officers were also injured by bullets during the encounter. They are presently receiving medical care and are reported to be responding to treatment.
The spokesperson further explained that police operatives are still combing the surrounding villages and bushes in order to track down the remaining kidnappers and ensure that no criminal activities continue in that area.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Danladi Isa, has reassured the people of the state that the command will not allow criminals to find refuge anywhere. He stated clearly that every criminal who refuses to repent and continues to terrorize innocent citizens will surely be brought to justice and face the full weight of the law.
