Fierce gun battle in Abia: Police gun down six kidnappers, recover deadly weapons

In a dramatic security operation that shook the Abia-Akwa Ibom border, police operatives have eliminated six suspected kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, smashing a network linked to one of the region’s deadliest abductions.

The joint operation, executed on August 21 at Ikot Ukpon village in Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, followed credible intelligence tracing the March 4, 2025, kidnapping of the Director of Sobaz Oil and Gas along Azumiri Road, Ukwa East, Abia State.

That brazen March attack had left a trail of blood: Assistant Superintendent of Police Tanko Natip of the Rivers Command’s Counter Terrorism Unit was gunned down, alongside two civilians-Mr. Anayo Ukwu and Mr. Chidozie Confidence Chijioke, Managing Director of Dozzman Filling Station.

Armed to the teeth, security forces stormed the kidnappers’ camp, arresting six male suspects. The raid yielded a deadly cache of weapons: two AK-47 rifles, 57 live rounds, six magazines, a locally made pistol, and a bag of charms and spiritual paraphernalia.

But as operatives withdrew, the criminals struck back. The ambush triggered a fierce exchange of gunfire. “A gun duel ensued, leading to the neutralisation of the threat,” a security source confirmed to Zagazola Makama, a counter-security expert.

The six suspects, riddled with bullets, died while being rushed for treatment.

Two policemen sustained injuries in the firefight and are receiving medical attention. Meanwhile, security teams are scouring surrounding forests to track down other gang members who fled with gunshot wounds.

Authorities vowed to dismantle the kidnapping syndicate plaguing Abia and its neighbours, reassuring residents that the noose is tightening around the violent network.