Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The Police in Ebonyi State on Friday said its operatives raided the camp of hoodlums terrorising the state killing three of them and arresting five others.
A statement by the Spokesperson of the command, Joshua Ukandu, said the raid was carried out in conjunction with other security agencies in a forest located at Omini community in Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State.
He said the gunmen on sighting the security operatives opened fire which led to a shootout during which three of the gunmen were neutralised.
The statement read in part: “Ebonyi State Police Command acting on credible intelligence in a joint operation with sister security agencies on 21st March 2024 stormed an unknown gunmen hideout in a forest within Omini community in Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State.
“The hoodlums on sighting the operatives opened fire on them and in the ensuing gun duel three members of the proscribed group were neutralised, five were arrested while others escaped.”
Mr Ụkandu said three Toyota Sienna Vehicles snatched from different individuals and used by the hoodlums to perpetrate heinous crimes were recovered at the camp.
Exhibits recovered at the den indicate that the gang is responsible for the recent attacks and killing of police officers within the state.
“Items recovered from them include; One (1) AK47 rifle with sixteen (16) rounds of live ammunition, A bag containing two thousand (2,000) rounds of live ammunition,
“A Police Warrant Card, a portrait of an unidentified person, One (1) Itel phone and One (1) motorcycle.”
The statement quoted the Commissioner of Police, Augustina Ogbodo, as commending the officers involved in the operation for their gallantry.
She further assured the residents of the state of the command’s readiness to fight against crime and ensure adequate protection of lives and property in the State.
