Gunmen have abducted a journalist with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Gregory Madu, in Owerri, Imo State.
Madu was reportedly kidnapped on Thursday at Irete in Owerri West Local Government Area while inspecting a parcel of land. Sources disclosed that the journalist had recently been posted to Imo State from Abuja, where he had been working.
The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and revealed that the kidnappers have demanded a ransom. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, assured that an investigation has commenced to secure Madu’s release.
“Yes, a colleague from NAN has come to the office to lodge the complaint, and the kidnappers have demanded ransom,” Okoye said. “We’re working seriously on it with the anti-kidnapping division, and a serious investigation has commenced.”
The abduction has heightened fears in the area, known as Umunowoha, which has reportedly been plagued by similar incidents. A local source explained that Ndegwu, Orogwe, and Amakohia-Ubi communities have also experienced frequent abductions.
“This is not the first time people have been abducted in this area. Land speculators and farmers are now afraid of going to the bushes around these areas,” the source lamented.
The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to address the rising insecurity in the region.
