Kidnappers Demand N10m Ransom for Abducted UNTH Director
Armed kidnappers demand N10 million ransom for abducted UNTH Deputy Director of Nursing Services; police launch intense rescue operation.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a startling development following the abduction of Ituku Ozalla, the Deputy Director of Nursing Services at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in Enugu State, his abductors have reached out to demand a staggering sum of N10 million as ransom.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, March 12, saw armed kidnappers storming the hospital premises and seizing the nurse along with two others, including a security staff member.
While prompt action by law enforcement led to the rescue of one of the abducted hospital staff, it was revealed that the kidnappers had contacted the family of the nurse, demanding the hefty ransom amount.
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A source within the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers made contact with the family on Tuesday evening, instructing them to transfer the ransom into a designated account.
"After the terrifying incident and subsequent abduction, communication with the nurse was severed as her phone remained switched off. Concerns mounted until the kidnappers finally reached out to the family demanding N10 million," the source stated.
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Confirming the abduction, the Enugu State Police Command, through a statement by spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe, announced the successful rescue of the security staff member abducted alongside the nurse. However, efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the nurse and apprehend the culprits.
Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu has issued directives for intensified efforts by security operatives and allied groups, including the Neighborhood Watch, Forest Guards, and Local Vigilantes, to ensure the safe rescue of the nurse and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in the vicinity of Ituku-Ozalla village and its environs to the authorities promptly.
The situation has sparked widespread concern, emphasizing the pressing need for enhanced security measures to safeguard healthcare facilities and personnel across the region.
