The serene community of Arogbo was thrown into concern Tuesday evening following the sudden disappearance of Fiyebo Langbe, a renowned chair (Kparagba) maker and resident of Epu, Arogbo. Langbe, who ventured into the bush in the early hours of Tuesday, March 11, 2025, to gather bamboo for his craft, failed to return home by nightfall, raising alarm among his family, friends, and concerned residents within Epu Street and the community.
Upon realizing his prolonged absence, worried family members alerted community members, prompting a swift and coordinated search operation. A team of volunteers, including friends and concerned individuals, mobilized to comb the dense forest in search of the missing craftsman.
After an exhaustive overnight search, Langbe was eventually discovered in a distressed state. Recounting his ordeal to our correspondents, he explained that after successfully cutting bamboo, he became disoriented and lost his way back home. Realizing he was stranded, he climbed a thick tree to avoid potential dangers while hoping to be spotted by rescuers.
“I battled with mosquitoes all night and had no choice but to remain on the tree,” Langbe narrated. “Luckily, I heard the search team whispering from afar, so I whispered back until they located me.”
His rescue brought immense relief to the entire town, and he has since been safely reunited with his family. The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with venturing into deep forest areas without proper navigation tools or safety measures.
The swift and collective response by the Arogbo community highlights the strong communal bond and vigilance that ensures the safety of its members. Authorities and local leaders have commended the volunteers for their tireless efforts in locating and rescuing Langbe.
Following the successful rescue, residents of Arogbo have expressed relief and joy, with many calling for the implementation of safety protocols for craftsmen and other individuals whose work requires them to venture into remote areas.
Mr. Kimi, a notable figure in the region, lauded the efforts of the search team, emphasizing the importance of community-led emergency response mechanisms. “This incident serves as a wake-up call for us all to prioritize safety. I encourage our people to always take necessary precautions when going into the bush,” he stated.
While Langbe’s case ended in a successful rescue, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of venturing into unfamiliar terrains without adequate preparation. The Arogbo community remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents by promoting awareness and readiness for such situations.
