The police in Ondo State have begun an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of one Olaloye Olatunde, whose whereabouts became mysterious after attending a seminar in Akure, the state capital.
Mr Olatunde, it was gathered, travelled from Owo on Sunday, August 24, to participate in a Child Labour programme organised by the Trace Project Akure in collaboration with Charakids Foundation at Sunview Hotel.
His personal belongings were discovered inside the hotel room where he lodged for the seminar days after his disappearance.
Olayinka Alayande, the police spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed that the matter has been reported to the police.
“The command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man’s sudden disappearance,” he said.
A family member had reported that Mr Olatunde had been in regular contact with his family from Monday to Wednesday during the programme.
It was gathered that attempts to reach him on Friday, August 29, were unsuccessful as his phone was reportedly turned off.
His wife, reportedly, grew increasingly concerned when her calls went unanswered.
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When relatives visited the hotel to inquire about him, they were shocked to find that, while other participants had checked out, Mr Olatunde’s belongings, including clothes, shoes, and other personal effects, were still in his room.
The unsettling discovery left relatives distressed and uncertain about Mr Olatunde’s fate, prompting them to report the situation to the police.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the hotel management nor the program organizers have issued an official statement regarding the incident.
The police called for calm as investigations continue.