By Paulinus Nta, A’IBOM
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnapped victim, who was abducted and held hostage by armed men.
The victim, a retired Shell Petroleum Company worker whose name has been withheld, was kidnapped on June 17, 2024, by four unknown assailants dressed in military camouflage.
The rescue mission was initiated following recent intelligence information.
According to the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John Anipr, the Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, had ordered the SWAT operatives of the command to swing into action immediately.
Upon sighting the police, the kidnappers opened fire. During the ensuing gun battle, one of the kidnappers sustained serious injuries and was later confirmed dead at the hospital.
The other suspects managed to escape. The victim was rescued unharmed in a compound located at Ikot Udobong Village in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area.
Reports indicate that the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦50 million, which was later reduced to ₦20 million during negotiations.
However, no ransom was paid at the time of the rescue.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ridding the state of crime and criminal elements.
He expressed appreciation to the residents of Akwa Ibom for their continued support and urged them to report any suspicious movements or persons to the police through the command’s emergency numbers or at the nearest police station.
