The Kogi State Police Command is on the trail of hoodlums who seized three family members of former Daily Trust Editor, Malam Ahmed Ajobe.

Among the victims is Mr. Ajobe’s immediate younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir. The victims were reportedly kidnapped on Thursday on the “deplorable Ankpa-Adoka-Markudi Road” while returning from a market in the nearby Awo community, the Ankpa Local Government Area.

The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya said the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area had already “deployed his men” to the region to assist in rescuing the victims.

Additionally, Police Commissioner Bethrand Onuoha has “ordered the drafting of the police tactical team” to reinforce the team on the ground.

Aya assured that everything possible would be done to ensure the safe release of the victims and to bring the criminals to justice.

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Although Mr. Ajobe could not be reached for further details, a family friend, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that the kidnappers are demanding “N50 million ransom” for the release of the victims. The source further explained that the abduction took place while the victims were purchasing items for the “seven-day prayers of the journalist’s late mother.”

The family friend also confirmed that the kidnappers reached out on Friday afternoon, demanding the “N50 million ransom.” However, the source could not confirm the family’s response to the demand, explaining that they had to leave the community for an emergency in Lokoja.

“No amount has yet been paid and the victims are still in captivity,” the source added.

Credible News.ng