TheCable

Kidnappers of Betinah Benson, mother of Kombowei Benson, secretary to Bayelsa state government, have demanded a ransom of N500 million for her release.

Betinah was abducted on the night of July 20 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state capital by gunmen who were said to be in military fatigues.

Another group was said to have also demanded N200 million for the release of Tari Ajanami, the owner of Club 64, a nightclub in the state.

Ajanami was kidnapped just a week after Betinah while at his building site in Yenagoa, the state capital to pay workers.

According to The Nation, investigators suspect the possibility that both abductions were planned by the same group.

A member of the family of the club owner was said to have confirmed that they were contacted by the kidnappers who demanded a ransom of N200m.

“I was shocked when they demanded N200m. I hope and pray that they release our brother unhurt,” the family source said.

Speaking with TheCable via telephone, Butswat Asinim, the state police spokesman, said the police were not aware of such demands by the abductors.

But he said the police were working to ensure the rescue of the abductees.

“We are not aware of it. We do not communicate with abductors. Our duty is to make sure that we secure the release of the victims. We are still doing out investigations and I’m sure our detectives will be able to rescue the victims soon,” he said.