Four residents of Akpoha, Ebonyi State, were kidnapped on their farms on July 24. Police confirm incident and launch investigation with local leaders’ support

The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of four residents from Akpoha Autonomous Community in Afikpo Local Government Area, prompting an ongoing investigation and rescue efforts.

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According to Police Public Relations Officer Joshua Ukandu, the victims were kidnapped while working on their farms on July 24 by unknown assailants.

“When I called the DPO to confirm the information, he told me they had visited the scene of the incident to ascertain what had happened,” Ukandu told reporters on Thursday.

The Afikpo Divisional Police Officer (DPO) is leading a joint effort with community and traditional leaders to trace the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of the victims.

“We are working with the community to uncover the reason behind the abduction and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Ukandu added.

Although the identities of the abducted individuals and motives for the kidnapping remain unclear, police say more details will emerge as investigations progress.

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The incident has stirred anxiety in Akpoha, a peaceful agrarian community, and highlighted growing concerns over rural insecurity in parts of the South-East.