Edith CHUKU
A man whose name was given simply as Mr Ekpoudo, has poured encomium on residents and youths of Mkpat Enin and Oruk Anam, for rescuing his two sons from suspected kidnappers.
His sons; Emmanuel and Ubongabasi were among the three children who were almost abducted on Wednesday, on their way back from evening lesson at Ikot Ekpaw in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The incident happened on Wednesday evening on the Ekparakwa–Ekpene Ukpa Road in Ikot Ekpaw.
Father of the rescued victims took to his Facebook to thank the residents and youths for responding to his sons call for help.
His words: “One of the three suspected kidnappers dragged my two sons, Emmanuel and Ubongabasi, on their way back from evening lesson at Ikot Ekpaw in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area to their minibus.
“But thank God my son raised an alarm and good neighbours came out to save them. Right now, two of them are at the Mkpat Enin Divisional Police Station.
“Many thanks to the Mkpat Enin and Oruk Anam youths. May God bless and reward you all. Thank you, Jesus.”
Meanwhile, in a statement on Thursday, the state police spokesperson, Timfon John, said that “operatives rescued three abducted children and arrested two suspected child traffickers following a distress call from a concerned resident.
“Detectives were immediately mobilised while strategic entry and exit routes in the area were cordoned off.
“During the intensive search, operatives intercepted a minibus with registration number 830 PH. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three missing children inside the bus.
“The children were rescued unharmed, while two suspects were arrested on the spot.”
The PPRO revealed the identity of the suspects as 39-year-old Emmanuel Johnny, from Ikot Itokpo Village in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of the state, said to be residing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and 28-year-old Ifiok Umoh, from Ikot Ikpene Village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
The command noted that the children had since been reunited with their families, while the suspects remained in custody.
