The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued an abducted victim in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of the state.

The authorities engaged the criminal elements in a gun duel, forcing them to flee.

Disclosing this to newsmen, the spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Timfon John, attributed the successful operation to the command’s commitment to fighting crime and ensuring the safety of residents.

According to the PPRO, the incident occurred on February 13, 2025, when a man (name withheld) was abducted along Okop Eto Road and taken to an unknown destination. Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the command launched a swift operation, engaging the kidnappers in a gun duel.

“Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the hoodlums fled with severe gunshot injuries, leaving the victim unharmed,” John said

The PPRO added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the officers for their swift response and reassured residents of the command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

The rescued victim has since been reunited with his family, while his stolen ash-coloured Lexus RX 350 SUV was recovered during the operation.The PPRO mentioned that efforts are being made to apprehend the fleeing suspects, recover the weapons used in the crime, and bring them to book.