Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have foiled a planned robbery and kidnap operation by gunmen in Awka North Local Government Area.
A press release by the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that the operatives from Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, were on a patrol in the area on Monday when the incident happened.
Ikenga said the event happened along Ebenebe-Achalla Road in Awka North LGA of the State.
“The operatives while on anti-kidnapping patrol were tipped off by a public spirited citizen who saw two gunmen being conveyed on a motorcycle along the road.
“The operatives went in pursuit of the gang and encountered them, where they had positioned themselves to rob motorists.
“On sighting the approaching operatives they tried to engage them in a shootout but the battle-ready operatives quickly overwhelmed them, forcing them to abandon their weapons and flee into the bushy environment,” he said.
Ikenga said the operatives combed the bushes and recovered two AK-47 rifles loaded with several rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and shells of expended rounds.
He quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye as commending the team for its gallantry, and asked them to step up proactive operations in that part of the state until all criminal elements tormenting citizens in that part of the State were completely flushed out.
