By Emeka Chiaghanam
Police in Anambra State say they have foiled a suspected
kidnap plot, rescued a victim and arrested a man alleged to be linked to a
fraud syndicate operating across Anambra and Enugu states.
The operation was carried out by officers from the Rapid
Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area, on 11 July,
according to the state's Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
In a statement, Mr Ikenga said the suspect, identified as
66-year-old Kenneth Nnaji, was arrested on suspicion of belonging to a
three-man group accused of obtaining money and goods from members of the public
through deception.
Police allege that the syndicate targeted traders and
business owners by pretending to represent reputable companies. According to
investigators, members of the group wore branded overalls and caps to gain the
confidence of their victims before carrying out the alleged fraud.
The police said the suspects would approach prospective
victims to collect goods under the pretence of taking samples. They would then
allegedly direct them to another location, claiming larger quantities of the
goods were available at discounted prices, before defrauding them.
Mr Ikenga said investigators believe the suspect provided
useful information during questioning, including details of how the group
allegedly operated. Police also said he identified three other suspected
members of the syndicate as Christopher, whose surname has not been
established, Jacob Musa and Joseph, whose surname is also yet to be confirmed.
The three men remain at large, and police say efforts are
continuing to locate and arrest them.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has urged
residents to exercise caution when dealing with people claiming to represent
companies or organisations. He advised the public to verify identities and
credentials before entering into business transactions.
Mr Orutugu also directed the investigating team to carry out
a full inquiry into the case, recover any proceeds believed to have been
obtained through the alleged fraud and ensure that anyone found responsible is
prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Police have not released further information about the
victim rescued during the operation or the alleged kidnap plot. Investigations
are continuing as officers seek to establish the full circumstances surrounding
the case and trace the remaining suspects.
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