DSS-Led Operation Rescues Kidnap Victim

….Neutralises Two Suspected Kidnappers in Imo

Security operatives comprising personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS), other security agencies and local vigilantes have rescued a 29-year-old kidnap victim and neutralised two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate in Imo State.

The DSS disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Owerri on Sunday.

The victim, identified as Ibeabuchi Adibenma, was abducted at about 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, around Afor-Ogidi Market in Isiala Amaifeke community, Orlu Local Government Area.

According to the statement, Adibenma was returning from Umuna, Orlu market, when the assailants, operating on two motorcycles, intercepted and double-crossed his vehicle before whisking him away to an undisclosed location.

Following the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly contacted his family and demanded N15 million as ransom for his release.

The DSS said security operatives commenced a coordinated rescue operation on August 20, leading to the victim’s recovery at Ihioma Community in Orlu.

“Two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate were neutralised during the operation, while two high-calibre weapons and ammunition were recovered,” the agency said.

Adibenma was subsequently taken into protective custody and later reunited with his family.

The DSS commended the participating security agencies and local vigilantes for their coordinated efforts, describing the operation as another demonstration of the ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and other criminal activities across communities in Imo State.