Kidnappers of abducted FUTO students in Owerri demand #7.5m each
The last may not have been heard about the frightening level of insecurity in Imo State and the entire South east geo-political zone, as those who abducted some students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) on Sunday have demanded the sum of #7.5m each for their release.
A source who disclosed this on social media alleged that the victims were abducted by suspected Fulani herdsmen who operate in the university environment.
According to him, “FUTO students who were abducted by suspected Fulani herdsmen inside the school premises on Sunday are still in captivity. A ransom of #7.5m has been placed on each of them by their abductors.”
The claim has sparked outrage and fear among students and residents, especially as it suggests a worsening security situation within the institution once considered relatively safe.
This development comes amid an earlier confirmed abduction involving a 17-year-old student of the university, Mary Ezinwayi Uzoma, a 100-level Microbiology student, who was kidnapped along the FUTO/Ihiagwa Road in Owerri West Local Government Area.
The Imo State Police Command had, in response, launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, deploying operatives alongside local vigilantes to comb surrounding bushes and nearby communities.
Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, in a statement, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, had directed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take over the investigation as part of efforts to ensure the victim’s safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible.
“The directives are part of proactive measures aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the victim and the swift arrest of the perpetrators,” Okoye said.
He added that intelligence-driven operations had been intensified, with increased patrols and surveillance across the FUTO axis and adjoining communities.
Despite these assurances, concerns continue to grow over the safety of students, particularly with fresh claims that more victims may still be held by kidnappers within the area.
Authorities have yet to officially confirm the latest allegation regarding multiple abductions and ransom demands.
Students and residents have called for urgent and decisive action from security agencies to secure the campus and prevent further attacks.
The police have urged anyone with credible information to come forward, assuring the public of their commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the state.
