A mother and her three sons who were abducted by suspected kidnappers while harvesting cassava on their farmland in Ugbene Ajima, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, have regained their freedom.
The victims, identified as Mrs Bridget Okey and her sons, Chukwubuike, Chukwuemeka and Chijioke, were reportedly kidnapped on November 5 at Nwiyi Ivuruge, along the route leading to Umualogo Village in neighbouring Nkpologu community.
According to a source close to the family, the kidnappers initially demanded ₦40 million for the release of the four victims but later allegedly reduced the ransom to ₦4 million following media attention and pressure from security agencies.
The source disclosed that relatives, in-laws, villagers and friends contributed money to raise the amount reportedly paid to secure their freedom.
However, Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Barrister Chijioke Ezugwu, denied that any ransom was paid, attributing the victims’ release to the intervention and coordinated efforts of security agencies.
Relates News:
Gunmen Abduct Mother, Three Sons While Harvesting Cassava In Enugu
Ezugwu commended the security operatives for their professionalism and commitment, saying their efforts contributed significantly to the successful rescue of the abducted family.
He also assured residents that his administration would continue collaborating with security agencies to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering and prevent further criminal activities across the local government area.
The chairman urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security operatives, reiterating his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
The family’s release has brought relief to relatives and residents of Ugbene Ajima following days of anxiety over their whereabouts.
: While a family source alleged that ₦4 million was paid as ransom, the local government chairman maintained that no ransom was paid.
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