Police Rescue Kidnapped Ex-INEC Employee in Calabar; Apprehend Three Kidnappers

Cross River State Police operatives successfully rescued Mrs. Caroline Bassey, a former employee of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), from the clutches of kidnappers. The abduction took place at her residence on Peter Ojie Street, Off Winners Way, Calabar, around 11:30 am on Saturday, November 4, 2023.

The kidnappers had cunningly posed as customers interested in renting chairs from Mrs. Bassey. They proceeded to subdue her security guard, locking him inside a refrigerator, and then fled the scene in her personal car with their victim in tow. However, their nefarious plans unraveled as a vigilant Good Samaritan blocked their escape route.

In a desperate bid to evade capture, two of the kidnappers abandoned their Camry vehicle and tried to join their associates in the victim's car. Unfortunately for one of them, the courageous Good Samaritan used his Toyota Hilux to knock down the fleeing criminal, allowing local residents and youths to apprehend him.

Meanwhile, police operatives intercepted the other two kidnappers along the Akamkpa axis, successfully rescuing Mrs. Bassey. The Cross River Police Command's spokesperson, Irene Ugbo, confirmed the operation's success and announced the arrest of three suspects. Two vehicles were also recovered during the operation.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) commended the bravery of the Njangachang youths in the area who aided in capturing the suspects. The arrested individuals were found in possession of weapons, ammunition, and charms.

Ugbo emphasized the commitment of Commissioner Gyogon Grimah to eradicating crime and criminal activities in the state, as directed by the Inspector General of Police. This rescue operation stands as a testament to their dedication to maintaining law and order in the region.