The Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) has successfully rescued a kidnap victim, Chukwunonso Nzekwe, in a high-stakes operation in Anambra State, bringing relief to the community and showcasing the hunters’ bravery.
The dramatic rescue unfolded in Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra, where Nzekwe, a local building engineer, had been abducted during a community prayer service held by Catholic Church members.
Dr. John Metchie, Deputy Commander-General of the NHFSS in charge of Intelligence, announced the successful operation on Tuesday in a statement from Abuja.
According to Metchie, the NHFSS joined forces with the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra Brigade, popularly known as Ochabrigade, to conduct the rescue mission on Saturday.
The operation followed a report of Nzekwe’s abduction, which sent shockwaves throughout the Nimo community.
Nzekwe was reportedly taken to a remote area in Agu Urukwelora village in Egbengwu Ojideleke Nimo after his abduction.
The hunters’ intelligence unit quickly mobilized after one of their officers in the village spotted suspicious activity in the nearby forest.
“Our eagle-eyed intelligence officer spotted the kidnappers in the bush,” Metchie explained.
“He then alerted a retired Superintendent of Police, who immediately sprang into action with other officers.”
The team moved swiftly, coordinating their approach with precision and courage, Metchie added.
In the ensuing operation, one of the kidnappers, who is originally from Nasarawa State but residing in Enugwu Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area, was apprehended.
However, other members of the gang managed to escape during a gunfight with the rescue team.
The NHFSS team also recovered a locally made firearm at the scene.
The captured suspect has since been handed over to the Rapid Response section of the police at Awkuzu for a thorough investigation.
Metchie commended the hunters and officers involved in the rescue operation, applauding their courage and commitment to public safety.
He called on the public to be vigilant and provide information that could help prevent crime, saying, “When you see something, say something.”
The Deputy Commander-General emphasized that the NHFSS remains committed to protecting Anambra’s forests and partnering with Ochabrigade to clean the state of criminal activities.
He also thanked Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, the NHFSS Commander-General, for his leadership, and recognized Mr. Destiny Jonas, the Anambra State NHFSS Commander, for his dedication.
“The team’s commitment is commendable,” Metchie added.
“They are determined to prevent any further criminal invasions of our communities.”
The NHFSS, alongside other local security outfits like Ochabrigade, has played a growing role in tackling insecurity in Anambra.
As kidnapping and other criminal activities have surged in recent years, these local security bodies have been at the forefront of efforts to curb crime.
With limited police resources in many rural areas, the hunters have become a trusted force in Anambra, often taking on risks to protect their communities.
