Security operatives comprising officers of the Department of State Services (DSS), personnel from 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.
Adibenma was reportedly returning from Umuna, Orlu Market, when armed assailants operating on two motorcycles intercepted and double-crossed his vehicle near the market. The attackers subsequently forced him to an undisclosed location.
Following the abduction, the kidnappers contacted his family and demanded N15 million as ransom for his release.
The DSS said security operatives launched a coordinated rescue operation on August 20, which culminated in the victim’s recovery at Ihioma Community in Orlu.
Two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate were reportedly neutralised during the operation, while two high-calibre weapons and ammunition were recovered.
Adibenma was taken into protective custody before being reunited with his family.
The DSS commended the participating security agencies and local vigilantes for their coordinated efforts, describing the operation as part of ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping and other criminal activities across Imo State.
