Expatriate, Others Trapped as Van Escapes Kidnappers, Plunges into River

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A Hilux van carrying an expatriate and a colleague veered off the road and plunged into the Okulu River in Rivers State on Tuesday while fleeing suspected kidnappers along the Eleme section of the East-West Road.

Eyewitness accounts reveal that the vehicle lost control after a confrontation with the kidnappers, who attempted to intercept it. As of Tuesday afternoon, the van and its occupants remained trapped underwater despite frantic rescue efforts.

Hon. Brian Gokpa, Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area, dispatched a rescue team to the scene and urged the Nigerian Navy and emergency services to assist in recovering the van and its occupants.

Specialist divers and marine police have also joined the operation to bolster rescue efforts. Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju visited the scene, commending the swift action of rescue workers.

Gokpa assured the public of increased security measures and pledged to support the capture of those responsible for the incident.

The perilous state of the Eleme stretch of the East-West Road has been linked to recurring incidents of kidnapping and road crashes in the area.

State Police Command spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed ongoing efforts to apprehend the attackers and ensure the safety of road users.

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