The operation, which took place in Nokpa-Nike, Enugu East Local Government Area, also led to the rescue of a kidnapped victim.
According to the police spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, the raid was carried out by operatives from the command’s Anti-Kidnapping, Distress Response, and Special Intervention Squads.
Acting on carefully gathered intelligence, Ndukwe said the police stormed the hideout of the kidnappers, who responded by opening fire, adding that in the ensuing gunfight, two suspects were killed, while others fled with injuries.
“The police are actively pursuing the fleeing criminals and collaborators, making it clear that Enugu will no longer be a safe haven for kidnappers,” Ndukwe said in a statement released on Friday.
The kidnappers had reportedly demanded a ransom of N40m for his release.
During the operation, police recovered a cache of weapons, including one G-3 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, and 125 rounds of live ammunition.
Ndukwe revealed that the gang was responsible for a series of kidnappings within Enugu metropolis and surrounding areas, and that several of their members had previously been arrested and arraigned.
The Enugu State Government has since demolished the buildings used by the criminals as part of ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and ensure the safety of residents.
