By Isaac Mission
Security operatives in Anambra State have rescued a teenage boy who was allegedly abducted in Enugu State after his kidnappers abandoned him during a police pursuit in Onitsha.
The victim, identified as Favour Ayogu, was reportedly thrown out of a black Toyota Highlander SUV near a security checkpoint at Ekene Junction along Oguta Road.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, the suspects fled when a joint patrol team moved to intercept the vehicle, leaving the teenager behind.
Ayogu was immediately taken into protective custody by the security personnel.
The police said preliminary information indicated that the boy had been kidnapped in Igboeze South Local Government Area of Enugu State before his abductors transported him towards Onitsha.
The command did not provide details on how the suspects moved the victim from Enugu into Anambra State but said their activities attracted the attention of security operatives, prompting the intervention.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga described the rescue as the outcome of intensified joint patrols and improved security vigilance across the state.
He said the quick response of the patrol team helped prevent further harm to the teenager, while investigations were continuing to identify and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The command is also working to reunite Ayogu with his relatives. Police said the boy's family is believed to be from Enugu State and appealed to residents of Igboeze South and Ibagwa-Aka who may have information about his relatives to come forward.
Members of the public with relevant information were advised to report to the nearest police station or contact the Anambra State Police Command.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Nnanna Ama, praised the security team involved in the operation for their alertness and professionalism.
Ama ordered officers to sustain intelligence-driven patrols, strategic checkpoints and joint operations aimed at disrupting criminal activities and preventing criminals from using the state as a safe haven.
The rescue comes amid ongoing security efforts in Anambra aimed at improving surveillance and curbing the movement of criminal groups across the state.
