The Anambra State Police Command has called on the public to assist in identifying the family of a 15-year-old boy, Master Chibuike Damian Onyebuchi, who recently escaped from his kidnappers’ hideout.
Onyebuchi, who comes from Ihiala Local Government Area in Anambra State, was abducted in Onitsha but was found in Kogi State after a harrowing ordeal.
The boy’s escape has sparked a wave of hope and concern as the police work tirelessly to reunite him with his family.
In a press statement on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, appealed to residents of Onitsha and Ihiala to help locate Onyebuchi’s parents and identify him.
A Kidnapped Boy’s Desperate Escape
Onyebuchi’s kidnapping story is one of the many that have emerged from the growing wave of abductions in Nigeria, especially in the southeastern region.
According to the police, Onyebuchi was kidnapped while in Onitsha, a commercial city in Anambra State, known for its bustling markets and busy streets.
The young boy was taken to an unknown location by his captors, who held him in captivity for an undisclosed period.
However, Onyebuchi managed to escape and made his way to Kogi State, far from his hometown in Anambra.
The Heroic Escape
Despite the traumatic experience of being abducted, Onyebuchi’s determination to survive led him to escape from his captors.
Sources say that he showed great courage in running away from the kidnappers, seeking safety in Kogi State.
The police later confirmed that Onyebuchi was found in Kogi State and was currently in their safe custody.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga shared the details during his address to the press, offering a description of the boy and calling on anyone who recognises him or knows his family to come forward.
Police Urge Public to Assist
The police are now seeking the public’s assistance in reuniting Onyebuchi with his family.
In his statement, Ikenga said, “The Anambra State Police Command has called on the general public, particularly residents of Onitsha and Ihiala, to assist with the identification of one Master Chibuike Damian Onyebuchi, male, 15.
“The boy was abducted in Onitsha and found in Kogi State. He is currently in the safe custody of the police command in Kogi.”
Ikenga emphasised the importance of the public’s help in identifying the boy and locating his parents. He also attached a photograph of Onyebuchi to the public notice, hoping it would aid in identifying him.
Public Appeals for Information
As the police continue their efforts, residents of Onitsha and Ihiala have been urged to stay vigilant. They are asked to come forward with any information that could lead to the identification of Onyebuchi’s family.
The tragic rise in kidnapping cases in Nigeria has prompted many communities to take extra steps in ensuring the safety of their residents.
The police’s request for public assistance comes at a time when families are becoming increasingly desperate for solutions to end the rising tide of abductions across the country.
Background: Kidnapping in Nigeria
Kidnapping for ransom has become an alarming trend in Nigeria, particularly in the southern and southeastern regions.
Onitsha, a city renowned for its trade, has also seen its share of kidnappings in recent years. Criminals target both residents and travellers, with many victims being held for ransom before being released or, sadly, murdered.
The case of Onyebuchi is one of the fortunate stories where a victim managed to escape, but many others remain in captivity, with families waiting for their loved ones to return.
The family of Onyebuchi is likely experiencing immense worry and anguish as they wait to hear from the police.
While the boy is safe for now, his family’s current situation remains unknown. The police have not yet disclosed whether the family has been located, but they have urged anyone with information to reach out.
“We are doing everything we can to find his family and ensure they are reunited,” SP Ikenga added. “We urge the public to continue helping us with any information they may have.”
