Tension has enveloped Uduere community, the hometown of the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Jaro Egbo, following the killing of a security guard and the abduction of a 14-year-old girl by suspected kidnappers, who are now demanding a ransom of N100 million for her release.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has thrown residents into panic, with many expressing fears over the worsening security situation in the community.
The deceased, identified as Umukoro Obukohwo Emmanuel, was reportedly on duty as a security guard when the gunmen attacked.
Community sources alleged that the assailants ambushed him shortly after he opened the gate to the compound, killing him before forcing their way into the premises.
According to residents, the attackers subsequently broke into the apartment. The teenage girl reportedly came out of her room after hearing unusual noises, only to be seized and whisked away by the kidnappers.
A source familiar with the incident, described the attack as particularly brutal, alleging that the security guard sustained severe machete injuries before he was killed.
The development has heightened anxiety among residents, with some accusing community leaders of allowing politics to undermine local security efforts.
One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed that a community security outfit that previously operated in Uduere had been disbanded due to disagreements among some stakeholders.
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“Since the security outfit was dissolved, the community has become increasingly vulnerable. We are appealing to the Delta State government and security agencies to take urgent steps to protect lives and restore confidence in the area,” the source said.
Sources further disclosed that the kidnappers have established contact with the victim’s family and are demanding N100 million as ransom for her release.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the Delta State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and text messages sent to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, were not returned.
However, a security source within the command confirmed the incident, assuring that operatives are on the trail of the suspects and are working to rescue the abducted teenager and bring the perpetrators to justice.
