A middle-aged man was almost beaten to death by a mob in Akwa village, Ihiala local government area of Anambra State, over allegations of kidnapping three children.
The victims, aged six, three, and two years old, were reportedly having their meal with their mother outside their home when they were abducted. The mother had briefly gone into the kitchen to fetch extra food but returned to find the children missing.
It was gathered that the suspect, identified as Charles Chiemerie Onuigbo, allegedly conspired with two others who managed to escape with the children, while he was caught by local youths. The police later arrived to take control of the situation.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the incident and said the case remains under investigation, with efforts ongoing to locate the missing children and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
He stated, “On 23rd September, 2025, police operatives, through the assistance of the youths of Akwa Village, Ihiala arrested one male suspect, Charles Chiemerie Onuigbo over an alleged case of abduction of three children between the ages of 6, 3, and 2 years respectively.
“Preliminary information reveals that Charles and two others who are currently at large conspired and abducted the three children.
“Further revelations from the mother of the victims stated that while her children were eating in front of their house, she went into the kitchen to get them more food but returned to find them missing.
“Also, the arrested suspect is a neighbor who had been harbouring the two fleeing suspects whose identities are yet unknown.
“In view of the above, Charles was attacked and beaten by irate members of the community, sustaining injuries before being rescued by the Police.
“The case is under investigation and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and rescue the missing children.
“Meanwhile, other parts of the State Command remain calm as counter-terrorism and other crime prevention operations continue.”
