A female banker, known only as Ifeoma, has reportedly been murdered by suspected kidnappers in Anambra State, despite her family paying a ransom for her release.
Ifeoma was abducted in Onitsha and held captive for several days before her captors contacted her family to demand a ransom.
A family source, speaking on condition of anonymity, informed our correspondent on Tuesday about the tragic incident.
The source revealed, “A ransom was paid, but she was not released. Her corpse was eventually discovered along the road.”
The source added, “Her body was found near Ideani Junction along the Nnobi-Alor Road in Idemili South Local Government Area. Despite the ransom payment, the kidnappers killed her. We suspect she may have recognised her captors, leading them to eliminate her to avoid identification. The family is devastated by this heartbreaking news.”
When reached for comment, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, confirmed the incident and stated that the victim’s body has been recovered.
Ikenga noted, “The command received reports of an abandoned female corpse found along the Nnobi-Alor Road, allegedly discarded by suspected kidnappers. The body has been removed from the scene, and photographs have been sent for investigation. Efforts are underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding her death.”
Meanwhile, in light of the recent release of two Catholic nuns and another kidnapping victim, the Anambra State Police Command has urged victims to come forward for debriefing to assist ongoing investigations.
In a press statement on Tuesday, Ikenga reiterated the command’s commitment to collaborating with victims to combat criminal activities effectively.
He said, “The Anambra State Police Command is eager to work with abduction victims to deny criminals the opportunity to operate and to create a safer environment for citizens in the state.
“This commitment follows the recent release of the two Reverend Sisters abducted along Ufuma Road, Orumba North Local Government, as well as the reported escape of Mr Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as Onyeze Jesus, from a criminal hideout.
“The command assures the public of enhanced security measures and surveillance operations designed to deter criminal activities and ensure safety across the state.”
