In a distressing incident, Mrs. Nneka Enuka Ugonochie, the Operations Manager of Sterling Bank, has been kidnapped by gunmen believed to be kidnappers in Bayelsa State.
According to reports, the abduction took place on Friday, June 16, 2023, around the PDP Junction of the Sanni Abacha Expressway in Yenagoa. The gunmen, disguised in military camouflage, seized Mrs. Ugonochie, adding to the growing concern of security in the area.
Security sources disclosed that the victim had previously been warned to relocate from her residence due to its proximity to the recently apprehended kidnap kingpin, John Ewa, also known as John Lyon, and Emmanuel Agase. Initially, the Operation Puff Adder and anti-kidnapping squad of the state police command had provided security for her residence. However, due to logistical issues, the arrangement was altered based on her request.
Furthermore, it was revealed that Mrs. Ugonochie had been cautioned to remain vigilant and security conscious until the state government approved the seizure of the building owned by the arrested kidnappers.
Many residents of the area speculate that this kidnapping might be connected to the remaining members of John Lyon’s gang who managed to evade arrest during the apprehension of the kingpin.
Confirming the incident, Bayelsa State’s Commissioner of Police, CP Romokere Ibani, stated that the bank manager was abducted by four gunmen dressed in military camouflage while she was en route to her office. The police have launched an investigation and are diligently working to locate the criminals and secure the safe release of the victim.
Kanyi Daily recalls that former Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha recently escaped death after gunmen attacked his convoy.