DSS, other security forces kill two suspects, rescue kidnap victims in Imo

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes, have rescued a 29-year-old man, Ibeabuchi Adibenma, who was abducted by suspected kidnappers in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State.

The victim was kidnapped at about 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, around Afor-Ogidi Market in Isiala Amaifeke Community, while returning from the International Market, Umuna, Orlu.

In a statement issued by the Department of State Services, Imo State Command, in Owerri, the armed assailants, reportedly operating on two motorcycles, intercepted and double-crossed the victim’s vehicle before forcing him to an undisclosed location.

Following the abduction, the kidnappers contacted the victim’s family and demanded a ransom of N15 million for his release.

However, in the early hours of Thursday, August 20, security operatives launched a coordinated operation that led to the victim’s rescue at Ihioma Community, Orlu, where two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate were neutralised.

The security agencies said that during the operation, two high-calibre weapons and ammunition were recovered, while the victim was subsequently taken into protective custody and reunited with his family.

The operation underscores the growing collaboration among security agencies and local vigilante groups in Imo State to disrupt criminal networks and prevent the state from becoming a haven for kidnappers and other violent criminals.

Security agencies have intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance and joint operations across the state, with efforts ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate who remain at large.

The agencies also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly provide credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to prevent and combat kidnapping and other forms of violent crime in the state.

The two suspects were killed by a combined team of DSS operatives and other security agencies in Owerri.