Anambra Police Appeal for Clues After Five Travelers Go Missing During Transit

 

The Anambra State Police Command has called on the public to provide any relevant information about five individuals reported missing while passing through the state. The group, who departed Lagos en route to Uyo in Akwa Ibom State, vanished after making a stopover in Anambra, sparking concern from family and friends.

Social media platforms have been awash with reports about the missing travelers, who were last heard from more than 24 hours ago. The individuals planned to spend the night at a hotel in Anambra before resuming their journey the following day. Human Rights Advocate Harrison Gwamnishu shared their photos and names on Facebook, amplifying the distress of an acquaintance desperate for news.

According to the details circulating online, the group left Shimawa, Lagos, the previous day. Around 7:00 pm, they contacted loved ones to confirm they had reached Asaba and were searching for a place to eat. An hour later, they continued their trip and arrived in Anambra, where they decided to stay overnight at a hotel.

A message accompanying their photos revealed that the last communication from the group was around 10:00 pm, when they were believed to be resting after a long day of travel. One of the travelers sent a WhatsApp birthday greeting to his wife at 6:16 am the next morning—the final message anyone has received. Attempts to reach the five individuals by phone and WhatsApp since then have been unsuccessful, with their devices switched off.

The post noted that calls made to one of the phones rang several times but went unanswered before the device was switched off completely. The family has contacted the Anambra Police Command but has yet to receive any updates. The missing persons include four male friends and the groom's sister, who were all headed to a wedding scheduled for the following day.

Responding to the situation, Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, confirmed that the police have seen the social media alerts about the missing persons. He encouraged the publishers of the information and the public to collaborate with security agencies to provide any useful leads that might assist in locating the group.

Ikenga urged relatives or family members of the missing travelers to report to the police headquarters for further investigation. He noted that, to date, no formal report regarding the disappearance had been filed at any police division or unit within the state.

The spokesman reassured the public that the command regularly reviews operational strategies and implements security initiatives aimed at improving safety and fostering cooperation with the community. Recent assessments indicate that residents of Anambra are increasingly frustrated with criminal activities disrupting peace and economic activities, particularly on Mondays, prompting stronger partnerships with security agencies to address these threats.

Members of the public are encouraged to promptly report any security-related incidents to the police or other security outfits. The police have also made a dedicated phone line available for immediate response: 07039194332. Additionally, the "npf rescue me app" can be downloaded free of charge on both Android and iOS devices, providing another channel for reporting emergencies.

While the search for the five missing individuals continues, the Anambra Police Command’s appeal highlights the importance of community involvement and swift reporting to enhance safety and ensure timely action in situations like these. The hope remains that the travelers will be found safe and reunited with their loved ones soon.