Sophia Afolabi

The Abia State Police Command has rescued a kidnapped medical doctor and arrested four suspects allegedly linked to the abduction, including a Point of Sale (PoS) operator accused of receiving ransom from the victim’s family.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, disclosed this in Umuahia while briefing journalists on the Command’s operations and achievements since he assumed office less than a month ago.

Afolabi identified the rescued doctor as Ikenna Ilo, who was abducted on August 19, 2026. He said the victim was freed following intelligence-led operations by the Command.

According to him, police operatives traced the kidnappers’ vehicle towards Imo State and subsequently collaborated with the Imo State Police Command to secure the victim’s release.

The Commissioner said Ilo was rescued unharmed, while four suspects were arrested over their alleged involvement in the crime.

He said the suspects were linked to different aspects of the operation, including the removal of the tracking device from the victim’s vehicle and the collection of ransom through a PoS outlet.

Afolabi said the suspects remained in custody as detectives continued to investigate their alleged roles in the kidnapping.

He added that the investigation was also aimed at identifying and arresting other members of the criminal syndicate believed to be involved in the operation.

The CP said the Command had, since his assumption of office, arrested several suspected criminals and recovered firearms, ammunition and stolen property.

He disclosed that other suspects had also been apprehended across the state for offences including defilement, vandalism and other criminal activities.

Afolabi assured residents that the police would sustain intelligence-led operations against criminal elements and intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in Abia.