Bandits Demand N6 Million for Kidnapped Poly Student

BY: News Peddlers 

Bandits 

The kidnappers of Kogi State Polytechnic students in Ondo State have demanded a N16 million ransom to release them.

The four female students were returning home for Yuletide and transiting en route to Ondo state when they were stopped and kidnapped by armed men on the Akunnu-Ajowa road in the Akoko area of Ondo State on Friday.

Obadero Florence, Aregbesola Oreoluwa, Ahmed Ifeoluwa, and Olarotimi Omotoyosi were the names of the female victims obtained by Peoples Gazette.

"The gunmen have made contact with their families, and they are demanding four million naira from each of them before they can be released," a security source who did not want his name printed told Peoples Gazette on Sunday.

Due to the notorious activities of armed bandits, the road has been a nightmare for motorists travelling between Kogi and Abuja.

According to the source, the kidnapping of the female students has concerned security agencies in both Kogi and Ondo states.

"You are aware of the collaboration that exists between the two states, particularly in border towns and villages, but I can't imagine how these guys (kidnappers) operate freely and without hindrance.

"I'm sure our men would have to redouble their efforts and keep a close eye on things from within. The safety of our people's lives and property is of the utmost importance, especially during this season. So we should have them soon," he added.

On Saturday, Muri Agboola, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in Ondo, confirmed the kidnapping of the female students, saying detectives from the police command had already swung into action to rescue the victims.

"The incident occurred in Akoko's Ago-Jinadu area, but our men are already on their way there.

"I can assure you that they will be saved," Mr. Agboola assured Peoples Gazette.

In September 2022, the South-West Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps, in Ondo expressed concern about rising insecurity along Kogi and Edo state borders.

Adetunji Adeleye, the Corps' Ondo Commander, hinted that armed bandits operating on major roads and who have turned kidnapping into a "criminal business venture" usually flee to towns in Kogi and Edo after striking in Ondo State.

(Peoples Gazette)