Three individuals were abducted by armed men near the Innoson Motorcycle Showroom in Nnewi, Anambra State, on Tuesday evening. The incident, which occurred at approximately 5:00 pm, caused panic among residents and business owners in the area.
Eyewitnesses reported that over six gunmen, traveling in two Toyota Sienna vehicles, intercepted a car near Traffic Light Junction, a location close to the Innoson Motor Factory. The victims, identified as two men and one woman, were reportedly on their way home after concluding their day’s activities.
According to a witness, the attackers wielded sophisticated weapons and forced the victims out of their car at gunpoint. One of the gunmen then took control of the victims’ vehicle, following the lead car containing the abducted individuals, while another vehicle trailed behind. The operation, which lasted less than five minutes, prompted nearby shop owners to close their businesses early out of fear.
There are speculations that the incident might be linked to threats issued by armed groups regarding the burial of a late senator. Local sources claim that the gunmen warned of making Nnewi unsafe if the burial was carried out without their consent.
In response, the Anambra State Police Command dismissed such connections, assuring residents of their safety. The Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the abduction and stated that the Joint Security Forces were actively working to rescue the victims.
Ikenga’s statement read, “Today November 26-11-2024 by 6:45 pm three people were abducted near Innoson Motorcycle Showroom along Owerri Road, Nnewi.
“The police command is determined and is already working with information obtained from the scene for the ongoing rescue operations. “The Command also urged residents or anyone with useful information that will aid the investigation to come forward to the Command Headquarters, Awka, or the nearest Police station.
“You are also encouraged to call the Command’s Emergency number 112 or call 07039194332 for a prompt response. Further details shall be communicated.”
