Three teenagers who were allegedly abducted, confined and subjected to months of torture have been rescued after escaping from a residence in Heliu Estate along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway in Enugu State.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on June 11, 2026, has sparked outrage among residents and human rights advocates, with calls for a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
According to a petition submitted to Governor Peter Mbah by the Civil Rights Realisation and Advancement Network (CRRAN), the victims identified as Joseph Ibangwu, Izuchukwu Junior and Miracle Tochukwu were discovered by residents after fleeing from a house within the estate where they had allegedly been held against their will since March 16, 2026.
Residents who encountered the teenagers said they appeared weak, malnourished and bore visible wounds and scars allegedly resulting from repeated physical abuse.
The teenagers reportedly told security officials that they had been brought from Ebonyi State under the promise of employment at a business operated by a resident of the estate. However, upon arrival, they were allegedly locked inside a room, had their mobile phones confiscated and were prevented from leaving the premises.
They further alleged that they were fed only once daily, mainly with plain rice, and were subjected to frequent beatings. Their movements were said to have been monitored through surveillance cameras installed around the house.
According to the petition, the teenagers seized an opportunity to escape when their alleged captor reportedly forgot to lock the door. They ran from the building and sought help from residents of the estate.
Officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who maintain a security post within the estate, reportedly took custody of the teenagers and arrested a suspect in connection with the incident.
The victims were subsequently taken to a medical facility for treatment due to the severity of their injuries.
The matter has since been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Nigeria Police Force in Enugu for further investigation.
In its petition, CRRAN condemned the alleged acts, describing them as a “heinous crime” and a violation of human rights. The organisation called on the Enugu State Government to ensure that all those involved are identified, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the allegations as investigations continue.
