REPORTER: CHRISTAIN NWANGENE
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Enugu State Command, says it has rescued a kidnapped butcher, Mr. Chukwu Daniel, and arrested three suspects over his abduction during a cattle transaction in a forest in Onuogba Nike, Enugu East Local Government Area.
Parading the suspects while briefing journalists, the State Commandant, Dr. Elijah Willie, said the incident occurred on May 31, 2026, when the victim was allegedly lured into the forest by a cattle seller identified as Mr. Isuhu, popularly known as “Shua Shua,” under the pretext of purchasing livestock.
According to him, the victim had successfully negotiated and agreed on a price before the situation took a violent turn.
“After negotiating with the seller and agreeing on a certain price, the victim attempted to take the cattle away. However, the seller called him back, claiming he was no longer interested in selling. At that moment, the cattle moved deeper into the forest, and Mr. Daniel was allegedly ambushed,” he said.
He explained that the victim was subsequently attacked by three armed men said to be wielding an AK-47 rifle, two pistols and machetes.
“The victim alleged that three armed men, carrying one AK-47 rifle, two pistols and machetes, emerged from the forest and attacked him. He was consequently taken captive, and a ransom demand was made through contact with his wife,” the Commandant stated.
Dr. Willie explained that the victim’s wife promptly alerted the NSCDC, prompting a rapid response from operatives who rescued Mr. Daniel and arrested three suspects.
“The victim’s wife promptly alerted the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. A patrol team responded swiftly, leading to the successful rescue of Mr. Daniel and the arrest of three suspects,” he said.
He added that investigations are ongoing, noting that the suspects are assisting the Corps with useful information that may lead to the arrest of other accomplices still at large.
“Investigations are currently ongoing, and the suspects are helping with useful information that may lead to the arrest of others still at large,” he added.
Dr. Willie further disclosed that the victim sustained machete cuts and other injuries during the attack and was admitted at Colliery Hospital, Enugu, where he spent over a week receiving treatment.
“Mr. Daniel was hospitalised for over a week at Colliery Hospital, Enugu, as a result of machete cuts and injuries sustained. He is currently recovering,” he said.
He advised members of the public to patronise only designated cattle markets, warning against transactions in forests and other unapproved locations.
“I wish to inform the general public to purchase cattle and other livestock from designated cattle markets in the state and not from forests, and to also give useful information on the movement and activities of criminals within their localities to help curb their dastardly acts,” he stated.
He also issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating in the state.
“I also wish to warn all criminals, kidnappers, vandals and hoodlums that Enugu State is no longer a safe haven for their operations and we will ensure they face the full weight of the law if they do not heed this warning,” he warned.
