The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully rescued a 63-year-old retired Shell Petroleum Company worker and killed a suspected kidnapper during a gun battle.
The incident was confirmed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John, in a statement released on Monday, June 24. According to the release, the police rescue team engaged in a gunfight with the kidnappers, resulting in the death of one suspect and the safe recovery of the abducted victim.
The rescue operation took place at a compound in Ikot Udobong Village, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area. The retired oil company worker, who was kidnapped on June 17 by four armed men dressed in military camouflage, was found unharmed.
Initial investigations revealed that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N50 million, which was later reduced to N20 million. However, no ransom was paid at the time of the rescue.
“On June 22, 2024, following intelligence information about the whereabouts of a retired Shell Petroleum Company worker who had been kidnapped, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Waheed Ayilara, ordered the SWAT operatives to take immediate action,” ASP John stated.
Upon the police’s arrival, the kidnappers opened fire. During the ensuing gunfight, one suspect sustained serious injuries and later died at the hospital. The other suspects managed to escape, but efforts are ongoing to apprehend them.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to eradicating crime in Akwa Ibom State, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to capture the remaining suspects and ensure the safety of residents.
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