The Anambra State Police Command has disrupted multiple kidnap plots and rescued three victims during separate operations conducted across the state, according to a statement issued Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.

One suspect, identified as Gospel Ozioma Nneto, aged 31 and known by the alias “OZ,” was arrested during a coordinated operation by operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad.

Police say Nneto is a prominent member of a proscribed armed separatist group and has been linked to several acts of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

“In a series of coordinated operations across different parts of the state, police operatives arrested one Gospel Ozioma Nneto, a notorious leader of a proscribed separatist group,” Ikenga said.

He added that Nneto confessed to serving as a photographer for the group and operating from a camp referred to as “Mother Valley,” located in the Orsumohu-Orsu axis. The suspect is currently undergoing further interrogation as investigations continue.

In a separate operation, officers from the Nimo and Nteje Divisional Police Headquarters, in conjunction with local vigilantes, rescued three kidnap victims held in captivity by armed criminals. Among those rescued were two female victims, freed following a search of forested areas between the Oraukwu and Nimo communities based on actionable intelligence.

Ikenga also disclosed that an attempted attack on July 14 by two armed men was thwarted by police operatives from Nteje. The suspects engaged officers in a gunfight but were overpowered.

Police recovered one pump-action gun, a dagger, and other items believed to be used in criminal activities.

“The victims will be reunited with their families following necessary medical and psychological evaluations,” Ikenga said.

He confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest additional members of the criminal networks believed to be connected to the incidents.

The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety in the state. “The command remains resolute in its mission to ensure the safety and security of all residents and visitors to Anambra State,” Ikenga added.