Abia State Police Command Decimates Notorious Kidnapping Gang in Ukwa West, Recovers Dangerous Weapons
Abia State Police Command has dismantled a notorious kidnapping gang in Ukwa West, recovering 6 AK-47 rifles and other weapons. Read the full report on this major security breakthrough and the ongoing efforts to combat crime in Abia State.
The Abia State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping and violent crimes, following the successful dismantling of a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating within Ukwa West Local Government Area.
In a press release made available to journalists, the State Police Public Relations Officer revealed that the operation took place on June 30, 2025, at about 5:30 PM, after police operatives acted on credible intelligence regarding a known hideout of kidnappers linked to a series of abductions along Umuozo Village, Uratta Road, off Port Harcourt Road.
A joint tactical team stormed the kidnappers’ den located at Umuiku Obete Village in Ukwa West LGA. Upon arrival, the gang members opened fire on the operatives, prompting a fierce gun duel. However, the gang could not withstand the superior firepower of the security operatives.
As a result, five members of the gang were neutralized during the encounter, while several lethal items were recovered from the scene.
Exhibits Recovered Include:
- Six (6) AK-47 rifles
- 335 rounds of live ammunition
- Fourteen (14) magazines
- Five (5) handsets
- Three (3) cutlasses
- Five (5) operational jackets
- One (1) axe
- One (1) boot
- One (1) polo charm
- One (1) double-barrel long gun (recovered in a separate operation)
In a related development, officers of the Arochukwu Divisional Headquarters conducted a separate intelligence-led operation on August 2, 2025, leading to the recovery of a double-barrel long gun at Amuvi Village, Arochukwu. Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the origin and purpose of the firearm.
The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, commended the operatives for their bravery and swift action. He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to eradicating crime and criminality across the state.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals, especially those with gunshot wounds, to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency contact lines:
