Gunmen Kidnap FRSC Official in Enugu, Demand ₦50 Million Ransom
Emeason Chima, an official with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) stationed at the Ugbokolo unit, was abducted on Saturday near Maduka University in Nsukka, Enugu State. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of ₦50 million for his release.
Incident Details
Chima was driving alone in his Toyota sedan when he was attacked and taken. The assailants used Chima’s phone to contact the Ugbokolo unit commander, Emmanuel Al-Hassan, to communicate their ransom demand.
Rising Insecurity in the Region
The South-East has been grappling with increasing insecurity, marked by frequent assaults from non-state actors. These armed groups have engaged in numerous kidnappings, often demanding large ransoms and, in some cases, resorting to violence against their victims. Targeted individuals include government officials, military personnel, and police officers.
Controversy Over IPOB’s Involvement
The Nigerian government has accused the pro-Biafra group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), of being behind these attacks, a claim that IPOB has consistently denied.
Ongoing Investigation
The FRSC has confirmed the kidnapping, and an internal memo has outlined the incident. Further developments are anticipated as investigations continue.