The Ebonyi State Police Command says its operatives have neutralised two suspected criminals and arrested three others during separate operations in Iyonu and Isu communities of the state.
Spokesperson of the command, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Saturday.
He explained that the operatives had acted on intelligence that a criminal gang had been terrorising residents around the Iyonu/Idodo Forest in Ishielu Local Government Area.
Ukandu said the suspects opened fire on the police team on sighting them, leading to a gun battle.
“In continuation of the command’s sustained onslaught against violent criminal groups, two suspects were neutralised during a raid on their hideout in Iyonu community,” he said.
“The operation followed credible intelligence regarding the activities of the gang terrorising communities in that axis.”
Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, two locally-made Dane guns, 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition and five live cartridges.
In a separate operation, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit foiled a kidnap attempt in Isata community, Isu, Onicha Local Government Area. Three suspects — identified as Monday Okorie, Ngwuta Friday and Simon Joshua — were arrested, while one other suspect escaped.
“The suspects attempted to abduct the mother of a prominent resident in the community. One locally-made single-barrel gun was recovered from them,” Ukandu added.
“The arrested individuals will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.”
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adaku Uche-Anya, commended the operatives for the successful operations and assured the public of continued security efforts.
“The Command remains fully committed to combating crime and ensuring that Ebonyi remains unsafe for criminals,” she said.
“We urge residents to continue to provide credible information to advance proactive policing.”
