The growing menace of kidnapping in Delta State took a disturbing turn as gunmen invaded Ogwashi-Uku, abducting victims in the early hours of Tuesday at Ogbe-Onicha Farm Road, Agidiese Quarters.
According to human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu, the kidnappers, who allegedly included elements from across the Niger and within Igbo communities, struck around 1:00 a.m. One of the victims was shot in the leg as the gang tried to force him to raise a ransom of ₦20 million.
The victims were, however, released by 5:00 a.m. the same morning, but the kidnappers escaped with their Toyota Venza, which they ferried across the Niger Bridge into Obosi, Anambra State.
Through a coordinated operation by the Delta State Police Command’s Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cybercrime Squad (SAKCCS) and intelligence support teams, the vehicle was traced to Mgbuka, Obosi, where it was recovered. Two suspects were arrested in the process.
Gwamnishu commended the efforts of the police officers and the collaboration of the Udogachi Vigilante Group, located beside Shoprite, Onitsha, in apprehending the suspects.
Issuing a stern warning to kidnappers infiltrating Delta communities, Gwamnishu declared:
“To the kidnappers entering our communities: failure to leave will only hasten your meeting with your ancestors. This is not a threat but a reality that will soon unfold. Flee from Delta State.”
