After a tense 10-day ordeal in the hands of kidnappers, Mr. PengChao Zhang, a Chinese national, was rescued by the Kwara State Police Command from a forest hideout within the state.
Police operatives, supported by the Vigilante group, orchestrated an extensive search and investigation in the state’s forest, culminating in the successful recovery of Zhang, who also goes by the name Williams Kaka among his business contacts, on Tuesday.
Allegedly, Zhang fell victim to abduction when a gang of six armed men stormed Cherish Guest House, located in Eyenkorin, a suburb adjacent to Ilorin, the vibrant capital of Kwara State.
It’s been reported that the Chinese citizen had been residing in the guest house for a period exceeding two months, engaging in business dealings before the unfortunate incident took place.
Kwara State Police Command confirmed the rescue of the foreign national in a statement signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, on Wednesday.
The statement read, “The Kwara State Police Command is pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in the recent kidnapping incident that occurred in Eiyenkorin, Ilorin, Kwara State.
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“On the 10th of March, 2024, six armed men forcefully abducted Mr PengChao Zhang (also known as Williams Kaka among his business associates), a Chinese national who Lodged at Cherish Guest House Eiyenkorin, Ilorin, sparking concerns and fear within the community.
“Through diligent and coordinated efforts, the Command’s Tactical Teams and vigilante executed a series of strategic searches and investigations that led to the safe rescue of the victim in the early hours of March 19, 2024.
The command expressed its satisfaction in confirming that the victim had been reunited with his family unharmed. It emphasized that this achievement highlighted the unwavering commitment of the Kwara State Police Command to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors within the state.