11 of 15 Abducted NYSC Members Rescued After Kidnappers Demanded N20 Million Ransom Each in Kogi State
Gunmen who abducted some members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kogi State have reportedly demanded a ransom of N20 million for each victim, with 11 of the 15 corps members rescued so far.
11 of 15 Abducted NYSC Members Rescued After Kidnappers Demanded N20 Million Ransom Each in Kogi State
The 15 corps members were travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing their three-week orientation exercise when they were abducted along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The abduction occurred on the road that has become notorious for attacks on travellers, raising fresh concerns about the safety of highways in the region.
The victims, who were making their way back home after the mandatory orientation course, were forcefully taken by the gunmen, who have since made contact with their families to demand ransom.
A family member of one of the victims told Daily Trust that the kidnappers had contacted them and disclosed their ransom demand of N20 million per person.
The development has thrown the families of the abducted corps members into distress, as many of them are struggling to raise the huge sums demanded.
The incident has sparked outrage across social media, with many Nigerians calling on the government and security agencies to intervene and secure the release of the remaining victims.
A top security source in the state confirmed that 11 of the 15 abducted corps members have been rescued. The rescue operation was carried out through a joint effort involving security agencies and local vigilantes, who worked tirelessly to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims.
However, four corps members are still in captivity, and efforts are ongoing to secure their release. The Kogi State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement on the rescue operation, but security sources have expressed optimism that the remaining victims will be freed soon.
The abduction has renewed calls for improved security on the Aloma-Egane Expressway, which has witnessed several attacks on travellers in recent months.
Many have also called on the government to take urgent action to address the growing insecurity on highways across the country, with a focus on ensuring the safety of travellers and corps members who are often required to travel long distances to their places of assignment.
The incident has also raised questions about the adequacy of security measures for NYSC members, who are often vulnerable to attacks during their travels.
As the search for the remaining victims continues, the families of the abducted corps members are appealing to the government to intensify efforts to secure their release.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges facing Nigeria and the urgent need for action to protect citizens from the scourge of kidnapping.
The public will be watching closely to see how the authorities handle the situation and whether the remaining victims will be freed soon.
Source: TrendyBeatz