Banner Online News

By Peace Aikhuere-Caleb

In a gripping incident that has left the Sapele community in shock, a well-known surveyor, identified only as Ola, and his wife, were abducted by unknown gunmen late Friday, July 19, 2024 night. The couple was ambushed while returning to their home on NNDC Road at around 9:30 pm.

Ola, a respected figure in the local surveying community, was with his wife, who owns a popular shop in town, when their car was violently intercepted. Eyewitnesses recount that the kidnappers fired several shots into the air, causing panic among residents, before forcefully dragging the couple into the nearby bush.

A neighbour who witnessed the harrowing event, Amstad, shared his account with Reporters. “Ola usually comes home around 8 pm with his wife. Last night, they were almost at their gate when these armed men surrounded their car. The kidnappers shot into the air and then smashed their vehicle before taking them away,” Amstad revealed, his voice trembling.

When Reporters visited the scene on Saturday, July 20, 2024, the atmosphere was tense. Neighbours gathered in small groups, speaking in hushed tones. Ola’s compound was deserted, with the shattered remains of their car serving as a grim reminder of the previous night’s terror.

The Spokesman for the Delta State Police Command, CSP Bright Edafe, was unavailable for comment. However, a police source who requested anonymity confirmed that a report had been filed at the Sapele Police Station. “We are investigating the incident and are determined to bring these criminals to justice,” the source stated.

Community members have expressed their fears and concerns over the increasing rate of abductions in the area. “This kind of incident makes everyone feel unsafe,” said a resident who chose to remain anonymous. “We need more security presence to prevent such occurrences.”

The kidnapping of Ola and his wife adds to a growing list of abductions that have plagued the area recently. Local leaders and security agencies are under pressure to enhance measures to ensure the safety of residents.

Efforts to contact the families of the victims for additional comments were unsuccessful. Friends and relatives have been urged to remain hopeful as the police intensify their search for the abductees.

As the investigation continues, the Sapele community remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution and the safe return of Ola and his wife. The incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to curb the rising tide of criminal activities in the area.