News Investigators/ Security forces in Enugu State have arrested three suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate responsible for the Aug. 2 abduction at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Inoyi-Affa, Udi Council Area of the state.
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah disclosed this on Monday evening at the DSS Headquarters in the state.
Mr Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the remaining two victims of the Aug. 2 attack — Seminarian Lawrence Igbo and Mr Emmanuel Onwudi, had regained their freedom.
He said that the suspects were apprehended during a joint operation involving the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Enugu State Forest Guards and other security agencies.
He also said that one of the suspects was however killed during a gun duel with the security operatives, while four AK-47 rifles, seven magazines and 133 rounds of ammunition were recovered from the hideouts of the kidnapping syndicate.
”Usually, criminal elements will not want to be apprehended easily without a fight, but our people were ready. We have one fatality, while the others are here now as you can see. They will face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
He further said that the ransom paid to secure the release of the victims had also been recovered, adding that security operatives tracked the kidnappers through the deployment of the state’s hi-tech security assets.
The governor said the victims had identified the arrested suspects as their abductors.
The governor commended the DSS, Army, Police, Forest Guards and other security agencies for their cooperation and gallantry in the operation.
He noted that his administration had invested heavily in strengthening the state’s security architecture to prevent crime and ensure that criminals were brought to justice.
He added that the state remained committed to investing in security to protect the lives and property of residents.
”We are intentional in investing in and organising our security architecture to prevent crime. But if there is a breach, you can run, but cannot hide for long because we must get you.
“You can’t commit these crimes in Enugu state and get away with it. No way,” Mbah said.
He warned residents who colluded with kidnappers or acted as informants for criminal groups.
According to him, they will be tracked and prosecuted.
Mbah reiterated his appreciation to the security agencies for their role in combating criminality in the state.
NAN
