
Kidnapping news in Abuja – In a daring operation, law enforcement authorities engaged in a heated exchange of gunfire on Thursday as they successfully rescued Segun Akinyemi, an Abuja resident who had been kidnapped while driving out of his residence. The dramatic incident unfolded as the kidnappers were transporting Akinyemi from Abuja to Kano State, prompting swift intervention from the police.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer in Kaduna, ASP Mansir Hassan, the rescue operation was initiated in response to a distress call received on January 18, 2024, from Abuja, indicating that a kidnapping incident was in progress and that the culprits were passing through Kaduna. Operatives from the Kawo Divisional Headquarters swiftly responded to the call.
“At about 0010 hours, operatives blocked a grey Toyota Hilux van with registration number Abuja RBC 90 DC, carrying four passengers, including the driver, suspected to be the vehicle conveying the kidnappers and their victim,” explained ASP Mansir Hassan.
In an attempt to evade capture, one of the kidnappers opened fire at the police, initiating a gun duel. The police responded decisively, leading to the successful rescue of Segun Akinyemi. Additionally, they apprehended one of the kidnappers, identified as 28-year-old Chinaza Philip of Life Camp, Abuja.
While three other suspects managed to escape, the police are actively pursuing them. Recovered from the kidnappers were the victim’s vehicle, two Retay G17 model pistols, one Beretta pistol, ten 9mm P.A.K ammunitions, and five 9mm special ammunitions.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Akinyemi was abducted on January 17, 2024, as he left his residence in the FCDA quarters Area 3 Garki, Abuja. The three escaped suspects were identified as Chidibere Nwodibo of Life Camp, Abuja, one Auwal with an unknown surname, and the yet-to-be-identified gang leader.
The Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, CP A.D Ali, commended the operatives for their bravery and urged them to continue relentlessly pursuing criminal elements in the state. He also encouraged the public to utilize security hotlines for reporting any distress requiring swift action.