By Izunna Okafor, Awka
A group, known as the South East Security Response (SEER) has issued an urgent appeal for the immediate release of Mr. Charles Chinedu Umeakuesie, also known as Bishop, who is the Commander of the Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG) in Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area. Mr. Umeakuesie was tragically abducted exactly one week ago on Thursday, July 13th, 2023, while in Arondizuogu, Imo State.
The incident occurred when Mr. Umeakuesie had set out with the owner of a vehicle to recover it, but they unexpectedly fell into hands of the hoodlums who ambushed them. The criminals forcibly kidnapped them and later took them to Okigwe, also located in Imo State.
Retired Major Kinsley Obi, the Acting Chairman of SEER, expressed deep concern over the situation. While the owner of the vehicle has been released following the payment of a ransom, all efforts to secure the release of Mr. Umeakuesie have so far been unsuccessful.
According to the Chairman, the identity of the leader behind this heinous act has been uncovered as Clinton Michael Obiezue from Ifite Village in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The SEER Chairman also revealed that about N200,000 was paid to the kidnappers, yet they callously continue to withhold the victim’s freedom.
According to SEER’s ongoing investigation, the leader of the kidnapping gang is believed to reside in Okigwe, where he operates as the head of a notorious group known as the “Unknown Gun Men”” (UGM). Furthermore, he is reportedly involved in criminal activities alongside his accomplice, Nnaemeka Juliana Chidikaobi.
He further urged the relevant law enforcement agencies and authorities to intensify efforts in securing the safe release of Mr. Umeakuesie and bring those responsible for this appalling act to justice.
