The Imo State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnapped man, identified as Chinonaobi Uchegbulam, during a targeted security operation carried out in forest areas within Owerri West Local Government Area.
Uchegbulam, an indigene of Ubaha Orodo in Owerri West, was freed on Saturday after police operatives stormed suspected criminal hideouts located across the Nekede, Ihiagwa, and Agbala axis.
This was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye.
According to the statement, the operation was personally led by the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, alongside police personnel and local vigilante groups. The exercise was part of ongoing efforts to flush out criminals hiding in forested areas of the state.
Okoye explained that the operation was conducted based on intelligence and directives from the Inspector-General of Police, relayed through the Deputy Inspector-General overseeing the South-East zone, DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie.
He noted that the mission was aimed at dismantling criminal networks, destroying hideouts, and denying offenders safe havens within the state.
“During the operation, operatives successfully rescued an injured kidnapping victim, Chinonaobi Uchegbulam of Ubaha Orodo, from a forest hideout. He was immediately taken to a medical facility where he is receiving treatment and responding well,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police praised the officers involved for their professionalism and bravery, reaffirming the command’s commitment to sustained intelligence-driven operations against crime.
He further assured that the command would continue to make the state unsafe for criminal elements.
Okoye added that the operation is part of broader efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime across remote areas of Imo State.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency hotline, 0803 477 3600.
The police spokesman appealed for continued public cooperation, stressing that community support remains vital in the fight against insecurity in the state.