Gunmen kidnap 2 traders in Cross River

Heavily armed men have kidnapped two Igbo speaking business men in Calabar South local government area of Cross River State.


The victims, one popular Japanese spare parts dealer, Mr Paulinus Obi, popularly known as Matata, and Emmanuel Ozokwu a contractor were kidnapped Wednesday and Thursday respectively.

“Obi was kidnapped on Wednesday at Bedwell Street, while Ozokwu was whisked away on Thursday at Target Street all in Calabar South” an eyewitness who pleaded anonymity revealed to DAILY POST.
Another witness, Chukwuemeka Okoli, said Obi was kidnapped about 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 7, in front of his shop.
Narrating the incident, Okoli said: “We were sitting out in front of Matata shop about 7:00pm when two young men wearing black all through walked up to Matata and called for his attention.
“As soon as he stood up, another stern looking masked man came out from a parked old blue Audi 80 with AK 47 riffle and jerked Matata up and threw him into the car.

“Immediately the Audi 80 drove off with the three persons, another Camry car parked down Bedwell by White House Street followed them and they zoomed off to unknown destination.
“Since then they have not called, neither have they sent any message. Honestly, this is one kidnap too many and the traders would not take this matter lying low any longer.”
Reacting, the president of Igbo community, Calabar, Chief Albert Enya, described the incident as very unfortunate and called on security operatives to step up their activities in terms of patrol.
Decrying the incessant kidnap of Igbo business men, Enya cautioned Ndigbo to watch their back and be very cautious.

Confirming the kidnap of Mr Obi, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Irene Ugbo, said: “We are aware of the incident and we are doing our best to see to his release.”