Residents of Nwezenyi community in Igbeagu, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, have been thrown into panic following the alleged abduction of three siblings by a young woman who recently rented an apartment in the area.
The missing children, identified as Favour, Obinna, and Kamso Okeoha, were reportedly taken on Saturday while their parents were away from home.
Eyewitnesses who spoke to journalists under anonymity expressed shock over the incident, describing it as unexpected and disturbing.
According to a resident, the suspect had only recently moved into the compound.
“The lady rented the apartment on Thursday and moved in on Friday. By Saturday, the children had disappeared. We are still trying to understand how everything happened so quickly,” the resident said.
Another neighbour stated that residents could not immediately identify the woman because of her brief stay in the area.
“She stayed barely a day before the incident. Nobody really knew her identity,” the source added.
Community members also alleged that the suspect attempted to gain trust within the compound by repainting her room and writing the inscription ‘One Love’ on the wall, which made residents perceive her as friendly.
During a visit to the compound, the reporter observed that the suspect’s apartment was the only room bearing the “One Love” inscription.
As of Monday morning, the parents of the abducted children were not available for comment. However, sympathisers and concerned residents were seen gathered at the residence awaiting updates.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ebonyi State Command, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed awareness of the incident, stating that investigations have commenced.
“We received information about the case, and investigation is ongoing,” he said.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over child abduction in Ebonyi State.
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