Nigerian police say they foiled preparations for kidnapping in Akwa Ibom
Police in Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom State said they foiled suspected preparations for a kidnapping in the Oron Local Government Area. As Premium Times Nigeria reports, the state police spokesperson, Timfon John, said law enforcement officers received information from members of the public about a possible kidnapping plan near Oron.
Operation near the Calabar—Oron waterway
According to John, after receiving the information, police conducted a joint intelligence-led operation. They headed to a suspected criminals’ camp along the Calabar—Oron waterway.
The spokesperson, who holds the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police, said the operation is part of the police’s ongoing proactive, intelligence-based strategy. Its purpose, she said, is to identify, disrupt and dismantle criminal networks before they can carry out their plans.
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Boats, engines and weapons found
During the operation, police said they found one pump-action shotgun, two cartridges and a white rope that may have been intended for use in the crime. Law enforcement officers also reported seizing two speedboats, three 200-horsepower outboard engines and one 15-horsepower outboard engine.
All recovered items were documented and are being kept in a secure location for further investigation. John added that the police marine unit is maintaining heightened vigilance on strategic waterways and in coastal communities in the state. According to her, Akwa Ibom Police Commissioner Baba Azare praised the officers’ professionalism, courage and intelligence work.
