Correctional officer arrested for alleged link to kidnappers

The Police Command in Enugu State has arrested an officer of the Nigeria Correctional Service for alleged involvement in kidnapping-related transactions.

Security sources confirmed the story to security and counter insurgency analysts, Zagazola Makama, saying the suspect, identified as Mr. Ezu Ugochukwu, 41, also known as Sheyi, was attached to the Enugu Correctional Centre.

Makama quoted the sources to have said that the arrest followed credible intelligence and confessions made by a suspect earlier apprehended in connection with a kidnapping case.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the officer was in possession of the ATM card of the suspect while in prison custody, as well as those of other inmates.

“He allegedly withdrew ransom and other monies realized from kidnappings and fraudulent activities coordinated by the inmates and paid them into their bank accounts through POS operators,” the sources said.

The sources added that the suspect had made useful statements and was cooperating with investigators.

The sources said discreet investigation was ongoing and that further developments would be communicated. (Zagazola Makama)