The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully rescued a retired Shell Petroleum Company worker who was abducted on June 17, 2024, by four armed men dressed in military camouflage.
According to ASP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, the 63-year-old victim (identity withheld) was found unharmed in Ikot Udobong village, Etim Ekpo local government area, following intelligence operations.
During the rescue operation, a gunfight ensued between the police and the kidnappers, resulting in one of the suspects sustaining fatal gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
ASP Timfon John stated, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued a kidnapped victim who was abducted and held hostage. On 22/06/2024, SWAT operatives were deployed based on intelligence regarding the whereabouts of the kidnapped Shell worker. Upon confrontation, the kidnappers opened fire, leading to the fatal injury of one suspect while the others escaped.”
Investigations revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded N50 million ransom, later reducing it to N20 million, though no ransom was paid before the successful rescue. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, affirmed the command’s dedication to eradicating crime in Akwa Ibom State. He expressed gratitude to the community for their support and urged continued cooperation by reporting any suspicious activities to the police through designated emergency lines or local stations.
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