OPERATIVES of the Ebonyi State Police Command have rescued two kidnapped students from captivity in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state, following an intelligence-led operation.
News Point Nigeria reports that the Commissioner of Police, CP Anthonia Uche-Anya, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists at the Command’s headquarters in Abakaliki.
According to her, the students were found inside an uncompleted building where they were being held hostage by suspected kidnappers.
She confirmed that the victims were rescued unhurt, while three suspects were apprehended and are currently in police custody as investigations continue.
CP Uche-Anya used the briefing to highlight wider operational gains recorded by the Command between July and mid-August 2025.
131 suspects were arrested for various offences.
52 suspects have already been charged to court, while others remain under investigation and will be arraigned soon.
The Command recovered six vehicles, 15 assorted firearms, and 50 rounds of ammunition of different calibres.
Several criminal hideouts across the state have been identified and dislodged.
The Commissioner emphasized that these achievements reflect the Command’s renewed commitment to tackling insecurity and ensuring peace across the state.
Recognizing Ebonyi State’s largely agrarian nature, CP Uche-Anya noted that recurring crises over land and boundary disputes are common, especially during farming season.
To address these, the police have deployed early warning systems to detect and contain potential conflicts. The Command has also adopted non-kinetic approaches, engaging traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than violence.
“We continue to monitor flashpoints with land and boundary issues,” she said. “Our proactive strategy is yielding encouraging results, but we remain vigilant in ensuring the safety of our people.”
The Commissioner also gave updates on other successful operations:
Ekoli Edda Crisis (July 9, 2025): Police operatives attached to SWAT arrested Amarachi Ude, Idika Ama Okoro, and Sunday Ama Olughu in connection with the killing of one Udu Nnachi. The suspects will be arraigned upon completion of investigations.
Anti-Kidnapping Operation (July 28, 2025): Acting on intelligence, operatives stormed the hideout of hoodlums terrorizing Umuogodo-Akpu Ngbo, Ohaukwu LGA, leading to the arrest of Icha Chidiebere and the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one Dakota vehicle, and a Lexus 330 SUV without registration number.
Ivo LGA Crisis (August 14, 2025): The arrest of Agboti Kingsley, a mercenary allegedly hired to instigate crisis in Ihie/Ezza Ekembe, was also recorded. He is currently assisting the police with useful information.
CP Uche-Anya commended residents of Ebonyi State for their continuous support to the police and urged them to remain proactive in reporting criminal activities.
“The Command under my leadership remains resolute in protecting lives and property. Together, we can sustain peace and security in Ebonyi State,” she assured.
She further urged citizens to report suspicious movements or distress cases through the Command’s Control Room Hotline: 07064515001.