The Police Command in Anambra has launched an investigation into reports of a youth allegedly chained by his father for five years in Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area.

The Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday in Awka.

Ikenga explained that the suspect claimed his son had travelled abroad without consent, which led to the alleged confinement upon his return.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has directed operatives to immediately investigate the disturbing report circulating in the media.

The victim, identified as Chogbo, popularly called Agudo, was reportedly kept in chains for five years by his father on the grounds of unauthorised travel abroad.

“Preliminary inquiries are ongoing to establish the facts and safeguard the victim’s well-being. Where culpability is proven, those responsible will face the law,” Ikenga stated.

He confirmed that the victim had been rescued and was receiving necessary care.

The Command commended youths of the community for uncovering the incident, describing their intervention as a commendable example of community partnership in policing.

Ikenga assured that the outcome of the investigation would be made public.