Tragedy struck in Ezimo, Udenu LGA, Enugu State, as one of the kidnapped victims, Agnes Obetta, reportedly died from shock shortly after her release.
The Nigerian Army on Friday, December 5, rescued 14 kidnapped victims during an operation at Orokam Forest in Benue State, which borders Udenu LGA.
Seven of the victims were abducted while returning from a burial in Ezimo, eight others were kidnapped from surrounding communities, including two from Umuosigide.
According to a family source, Agnes Obetta, aged about 50, passed away after her kidnappers had collected ransom for her release.
“Shortly after her release, gunshots were heard near the bush where they were kept. The freed victims had to flee for safety. When they regrouped, Agnes was missing.
The following day, her son and some men found her unconscious. She was rushed to a hospital at Orokam but later referred to Obollo-Afor due to high blood pressure,” the source said.
Medical efforts to save her were unsuccessful, reports also reveal that the captives were underfed while in captivity.
A local PDP stalwart, Mr Hillary Onah, demanded clarity on the circumstances surrounding her death. He also revealed that her first son was still with the kidnappers when the gunshots rang out, forcing the kidnappers to flee with the ransom.
The tragic loss of Agnes Obetta highlights the lingering dangers and trauma victims face even after release, calling for better security measures in the region.