Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
All three Abia school kids stolen by a motorcyclist conveying them home after school, have been reunited with their family.
This is following the rescue of the last of the siblings at Warri in Delta State.
A statement Saturday by the Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Maureen Chinaka, said four suspects had been taken into custody in connection with the abduction.
The statement read: “On 10 May 2024, the Abia State Police Command received a report that three male children, namely: Gideon Osinachi (8 years old), Obioma Divine Osinachi (6 years old), and Israel Osinachi (4 years old), were abducted by an unknown cyclist from Amoba Okoro village in Ikwuanno LGA of Abia State.
“The children were taken away by the cyclist who was hired by their grandmother to take them to their home after the children had paid her a visit.
“We are happy to announce that all the three children have been rescued and reunited with their family.
“On May 21, 2024, Obioma Divine Osinachi was rescued at Ekwulobia in Anambra State, Gideon Osinachi was rescued at Nkpor in Anambra State on 23/05/2024, and the last of the three, Israel Osinachi was rescued at Warri in Delta State on 13/06/2024,” the statement said.
“Investigation and efforts to rescue the children lasted from 10/05/2024 to 13/06/2024. During this period, four female suspects and one male suspect were arrested in connection with the crime.
“The suspects were arrested variously at Amawbia and Nkpor in Anambra State, as well as Warri in Delta State.They include, Reverend Sister Pauline Alozie (female), Chizoba DJ (female), Glory Umuna (female), Mrs. Georgina Nonye Okoye (female), and Philip Ibe (male). They are in custody and will be charged to court very soon.
“The Abia State Police Command is appreciative of the collaboration of various stakeholders, such as the Mayor of Ikwuano LGA, Mr. Osinachi Nwaka, and Abia State Homeland Security, amongst others, towards the rescue of the children.
“We advise the public to stay security-conscious and ensure children’s safety. Do not leave children with unfamiliar persons, and report suspicious persons with children to the Police or other security agencies. Call 08035415406, 08079210004, 08079210003, 08079210005, or contact the nearest police station or police personnel.”
There have been incidents of child theft in Abia State in the recent times.
All four children of same parents were late last year stolen by a tricycle operator engaged by their mother to convey them to school.
None of them has been sighted since them.
Three other children living in the same compound were early this year stolen by a new neighbour in the compound.
While two were later reportedly rescued, one is yet to be found.
