The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of two school pupils by a suspected tricycle (Keke) operator in the Nsulu community of Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, the incident occurred last week as the children were returning home from school during a heavy downpour. The pupils reportedly accepted a ride from an unidentified tricycle operator who offered to help them because of the rain.
Police said the suspect later stopped along the route, claiming that his tricycle had run out of fuel. He allegedly handed ₦1,000 and a jerrycan to the older children, asking them to purchase fuel from a nearby station.
However, by the time the children returned, the tricycle operator had disappeared with the two younger pupils, sparking fears of a planned abduction.
DSP Chinaka confirmed that the incident was reported to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Isiala Ngwa North, adding that a full-scale investigation has commenced to track down the suspect and rescue the missing children.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Umuosu Development Association, Barrah Chiedozie, also confirmed the incident, revealing that the abducted pupils have yet to be found.
The Police Command has assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue the children and bring those responsible to justice, while urging members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities.
