By Abimbola Ogunnaike
The abductors of eight persons from Owukpa community, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, have demanded N500,000 ransom for each victim from their respective families.
The assailants had ambushed the villagers along the Atamka-Ugbugbu road while they were returning from the Aho-Ogbo local market.
It was gathered on Tuesday, 18 April, 2023 that the kidnappers reached out to families of the victims, demanding N500,000 for each person as the only condition for their release.
One of the abductees, John Ameh was, however, freed due to his health challenges.
Godwin Agada, Daniel Apeh and other victims are reportedly still in custody.
Meanwhile, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Anene Catherine Sewuese, has stated its operatives in collaboration with local vigilantes have been mobilized to the area to rescue the victims from the hands of their abductors and return them to their respective families safely.
“Yes, an incident was reported at Orokam police Division. Investigation reveals that some hoodlums grouped themselves and went to a farm area to kidnap people.
“Police teams in collaboration with vigilant groups in the community have been mobilised to the forest for rescue,” Catherine said.
