By STANLEY NWANOSIKE

The Police Command in Enugu State has rescued three abducted victims and recovered two firearms and ammunition in Enugu metropolis.

The command’s spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Enugu.

Ndukwe said operatives of the Anti-Cultism Sub-Unit of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), with the support of the Neighbourhood Watch Group and community members, rescued the victims on Aug. 18.

He said the operatives also recovered a Lexus RX350, two locally-made firearms, ammunition and other exhibits.

According to him, the operatives commenced a hot pursuit of the suspects, which continued to Hillview Road in the Independence Layout.

“On reaching the area, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and their firearms before fleeing the scene.

“The three victims were subsequently rescued unharmed, with support from members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group and law-abiding citizens, and taken to safety,” he said.

Ndukwe said the exhibits recovered included the victims’ Lexus RX350 vehicle, a locally fabricated Beretta-like pistol loaded with five rounds of 9mm live ammunition and a locally-made cut-to-size firearm.

Other items recovered were a live cartridge, a pair of hand gloves, a facemask and a mobile phone.

The spokesman said investigation had been intensified, while a manhunt had been launched to identify and arrest the fleeing suspects.

He said the police were also making efforts to recover further exhibits and establish the suspects’ involvement in the crime.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Mamman Giwa, commended the operatives, members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group and members of the public for their swift and coordinated response.

Giwa reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led and community-supported operations against kidnapping, armed robbery, car snatching and other violent crimes.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to the police. (NAN)