Ebonyi State Police Rescue Six Abducted Children, Nab Kidnap Ringleader
The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of six abducted children from the clutches of kidnappers. According to DSP Joshua Ukandu, the spokesperson of the command, they have also apprehended the mastermind behind the notorious kidnap syndicate specializing in abducting children from their homes in the state.
The incident unfolded when Nkwuda Francis reported on January 21, 2024, that a woman posing as a youth corps member, initially identified as Mercy Francis, had kidnapped two young children from his residence in Nwezenyi Igbeagu, Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State. Investigations later revealed the true identity of the suspect as Ngozi Blessing Abia.
Through meticulous investigation by officers from the Gender Unit, the suspect was traced to Oba, Anambra State, where the abducted children, aged three and seven, were rescued and reunited with their family.
Further inquiries led to the identification of the suspect’s involvement in the abduction of three other children from Ohaozara LGA. These children, aged between one and three, were eventually discovered in an orphanage in Benin City. The orphanage proprietor is currently in police custody, providing crucial information.
Another victim, Chinasa Uwezoke from Lagos, came forward to identify the suspect after she fled with her three children, including a 3-year-old son, whom she later attempted to sell. Fortunately, the boy was recovered and reunited with his family.
The suspect’s modus operandi involved gaining trust by renting an apartment, befriending neighbors, and then abducting children for financial gain.
In light of these events, the command urges property owners to thoroughly vet potential tenants and advises parents to educate their children on safety and interactions with strangers.
