Operatives of the Enugu state command attached to Anti-Cultism Sub-Unit of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), have rescued three persons abducted at Independence Layout, Enugu.

Their rescue was facilitated with the support from Neighbourhood Watch and community members.

The operatives also recovered two locally made firearms, ammunition and other exhibits.

The police spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe, said the operation followed credible intelligence received at about 1:30 a.m. on August 18, 2026, while the operatives were on crime-prevention patrol along the Port Harcourt Expressway, Enugu, concerning the abduction of occupants of a Lexus RX350 within Independence Layout by armed hoodlums.

“Acting swiftly, the operatives commenced a hot pursuit of the suspects, which continued to Hillview Road, Independence Layout.

“On reaching the area, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and their firearms before fleeing. The three victims were subsequently rescued unharmed, with support from members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group, law-abiding citizens and taken to safety.

“Recovered from the scene were the said victim’s vehicle, one locally fabricated Beretta-like pistol loaded with five rounds of 9mm live ammunition, one locally made cut-to-size firearm, one live cartridge, a pair of hand gloves, one ski mask and one mobile phone, all abandoned by the fleeing suspects.

“Investigation has been intensified, with a manhunt launched to identify and arrest the fleeing suspects, recover further exhibits and establish their involvement in the crime,” Ndukwe stated.