Delta LG Chairman Freed After 10 Days in Captivity, Police Confirm
The Delta State Police Command has officially confirmed the safe release of the Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Bright Abeke, who was abducted by armed gunmen in Sapele. Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this development on Tuesday in Asaba, stating that the council chairman regained his freedom after spending a harrowing 10 days in captivity.
Details of the Abduction Incident
Abeke was reportedly kidnapped at approximately 7 p.m. on Friday last week when heavily armed assailants invaded a hotel where he was staying along Owumi Road in Sapele. The hotel was identified as Debro Fred Guest House. According to eyewitness sources, about 15 gunmen carried out the brazen operation.
The attackers were said to have arrived in a Range Rover SUV and two other vehicles before unleashing sporadic gunfire into the air, causing widespread panic among residents and guests in the area. The gunmen reportedly overpowered security personnel around the premises and whisked the council boss away to an unknown destination before making their escape.
Police Response and Investigation
Confirming his release, Edafe stated that no arrests have been made in connection with the abduction, adding that police operatives are intensifying efforts to track down those responsible. He, however, did not disclose the specific circumstances surrounding Abeke's freedom, including whether any ransom was paid to secure his release.
"We have deployed technical and intelligence anti-kidnapping units to Sapele and we are already getting useful information about the abductors," Edafe said. "There has been no ransom demand yet, but we are optimistic that they will be fished out from their hideout soon."
The State Police Command has assured residents that operations are ongoing to apprehend the suspects and strengthen security measures in Sapele and surrounding communities.
Community Impact and Relief
The abduction had triggered significant anxiety in Sapele and across Delta State, with residents expressing deep concern over rising incidents of kidnapping and violent crime in parts of the state. The release of the council chairman is expected to bring considerable relief to political associates, family members, and residents of Sapele Local Government Area, many of whom had anxiously awaited positive news since the incident occurred.
This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, with authorities continuing their investigations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
