Dozzman’s Murder: Police Raid Hideout, Neutralise Suspects

The Abia State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in its investigation into the gruesome March 4, 2025, kidnapping and murder of Mazi Chidozie Confidence Chijioke, CEO of Dozzman Oil & Gas, following a successful raid on the hideout of suspected killers in Akwa Ibom State.

The operation, which took place on Thursday night, August 21, around 8:30 p.m., was carried out in Ikot Ukpon Village, Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom. It followed actionable intelligence that led police operatives to the location believed to be a base for the gang responsible for the high-profile abduction and murder.

The March incident, which also claimed the lives of ASP Tanko Naptip of the Counter Terrorism Unit, Rivers State Command, and Mr. Anayo Ukwu, Director of Sobaz Oil & Gas, shocked the oil and gas sector and the wider public.

During the Thursday operation, six suspects were apprehended and the following items recovered: Two AK-47 rifles, fifty-seven rounds of live ammunition, one locally made pistol, six magazines, a large bag of charms and ritual items believed to be for spiritual protection.

However, as the operatives were withdrawing from the scene, they came under heavy fire from other gang members attempting to rescue their captured colleagues. In the ensuing gun battle, all six suspects sustained gunshot wounds while trying to escape and were later confirmed dead en route to the hospital. Two police officers were injured in the firefight and are currently receiving treatment.

The Police Command urged the public to remain vigilant and report anyone with unexplained gunshot wounds or suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency hotlines.