LAGOS AUGUST 15TH (NEWSRANGERS)-The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the safe release of the Chairman of Jezco Group, Joseph Ezeokafor, and a reverend sister, ten days after they were abducted by armed men in the Ifite-Awka area of Anambra State.
The victims, according to the Police, were picked up by a family member at a location near the Anambra-Enugu boundary after regaining their freedom and have since returned safely.
Chief Ezeokafor, a prominent Anambra businessman and Managing Director of JEZCO Oil, was reportedly abducted while praying in a church located at Ifite-Awka area.
His abduction triggered concern among his family, business associates and residents, with reports later emerging that the kidnappers had initially demanded seven hundred million naira before allegedly increasing the ransom to one point five billion naira.
The circumstances surrounding his release, including whether any ransom was paid, remain unclear.
Confirming the development on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said, “The Anambra State Police Command confirms that, today, 15th August 2026, Chief J. J. Ezeokafor and a Rev. Sister, who were earlier abducted by armed criminals at Ifite-Awka, have been released and have safely returned.”
The Command added that it was taking steps to establish the circumstances surrounding the release and obtain information that could assist the ongoing investigation and identification of the perpetrators.
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Ama, has directed intensified intelligence-led operations and a manhunt for those behind the abduction.
The Police said the operation involves the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Agunechemba security operatives and other relevant agencies, while urging residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to aid the investigation.
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