Gunmen, numbering over 10, stormed Mbutu ancient kingdom of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State on Thursday and abducted the traditional ruler of the community, Eze Damian Nwaigwe.
The monarch was kidnapped at his palace around 2: 30am, a community source who craved anonymity told our correspondent.
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The source said: “The traditional ruler of Mbutu ancient kingdom in the Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo state, Eze Damian Nwaigwe, was kidnapped early this morning.
“We learnt that those who kidnapped him were many.
“They came in vehicles and were more than 10.
“They barricaded his palace, shot indiscriminately into the air before they took him away in a waiting vehicle.”
It was gathered that the palace of the king is excluded, a bit isolated from neighbouring houses, a factor that made it difficult for his subjects to come to his aid.
Police spokesperson in the state, CSP Mike Abattam, confirmed the incident.
Abattam said the command had swung into action with an attempt to rescue the monarch unhurt.