The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, has confirmed the abduction of seven farmers in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of the state.
Adetunji Adeleye, State Commander of Amotekun Corps, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview on Monday, stating that the kidnapping occurred on Saturday. He added that officers had been deployed to comb surrounding forests in search of the victims.
“I can confirm the incident. Our men have been in the forests and are still there. I was there yesterday (Sunday) and we are hopeful that they will soon be rescued,” he said.
Olushola Ayanlade, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), also confirmed the incident, noting that efforts were underway to secure the victims’ release.
“Yes, there is a case of kidnapping at the weekend in Itaogbolu, and the police have launched an operation to ensure that those who are responsible are apprehended. I cannot confirm the exact number of the victims to you because there is still an ongoing operation, but we are working assiduously to ensure their safe return,” Ayanlade said.
A source revealed that the kidnappers had contacted some families of the victims and demanded N100 million for their release.
One of the sources, who requested anonymity, said the victims were abducted while harvesting palm fruits on their farm.
“They went to the farm to harvest palm fruits when they were abducted on Saturday. We didn’t hear from them until yesterday evening (Sunday) when the kidnappers contacted one of the family members, demanding a ransom of N100 million for their release. We’re still negotiating with their abductors,” the source disclosed.
(NAN)