Operatives from the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) have successfully stormed a forest hideout between Issele-Asagba and Otulu, resulting in the death of suspected kidnappers and the recovery of several firearms and ammunition.

The operation, which took place on April 21, 2025, followed intelligence reports about a kidnapping syndicate led by one Bellow Abubakar operating in Ubuluku, Issele-Asagba, and surrounding areas. The police were tipped off to the gang’s hideout located in the Agu-Amawbia forest in Anambra State.

Upon raiding the hideout, police operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle and 132 rounds of live ammunition. The operation was extended to another location, a forest between Issele-Asagba and Otulu, where the suspects were believed to be waiting in ambush.

As the operatives approached, the suspects, led by Abubakar, opened fire on the police, leading to a fierce gun battle. However, the CP-SAT team, prepared for the confrontation, returned fire, forcing the kidnappers to flee in different directions with varying degrees of gunshot wounds. During the aftermath, five of the suspects, including Bellow Abubakar, were apprehended and taken to a nearby hospital, where they were confirmed dead due to the severity of their injuries.

In addition to the initial seizure, two more AK-47 rifles and 18 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition were recovered from the forest during the operation. The police have confirmed that the manhunt for other injured fleeing suspects is ongoing.

The successful raid is seen as a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and violent crime in the region. The police have assured the public of their commitment to further enhancing security and bringing perpetrators of such crimes to justice.