A sense of dread has settled over Ebedei-Ukwuole in Ukwuani Local Government Area, Delta State, following the abduction of five persons in two separate incidents along Amuchi road.
The kidnappings, which occurred on Thursday, March 13, and Friday, March 14, 2025, have heightened concerns over the growing wave of insecurity in the area.
The first attack happened on Thursday around 3 p.m. when armed assailants stormed a compound and abducted their victims. The kidnappers later contacted the families, demanding a ransom of N10 million for their release.
Barely 24 hours later, on Friday, another three individuals, including a tricycle operator, were kidnapped along Amuchi road while traveling to Ebedei Inland. However, one of the tricycle passengers who managed to escape narracted the terrifying ordeal to security operatives and community leaders.
Sources disclosed that among those kidnapped on Friday was a married woman, but unlike the first group, their abductors have yet to make contact with their families. The uncertainty surrounding their fate has left relatives and residents in distress.
The local vigilante group swiftly reported the incidents to the Nigerian Police Station in Umutu and attempted a rescue operation, but their efforts were unsuccessful, further deepening concerns over the safety of commuters on the route.
Family members of the victims have since been holding emergency meetings as they weigh their options amid growing fears over the ransom demand. The lack of communication from the second group of kidnappers has intensified anxiety, as there is no indication of their condition or whereabouts.
Community sources expressed frustration over the rising criminal activities along Amuchi road, which has long been plagued by motorcycle thefts and other violent crimes. They lamented that these kidnappings mark a disturbing escalation of insecurity in the area.
When contacted, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bright Dafe, stated that the state command had yet to receive any official report on the incidents but assured that he would reach out to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge.
His response has further fueled concerns among residents, who are calling on the authorities to act swiftly to rescue the victims and curb the increasing rate of kidnappings in the region.
As fear grips the community, local leaders have urged security agencies to intensify patrols and deploy more personnel to protect lives and property. The recent abductions have once again underscored the urgent need for enhanced security measures in Delta State, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to criminal activities.
