Introduction: Last Wednesday, Akeem Kareem’s ordeal on the Benin-Ore Expressway ended with his release after enduring three days in captivity. The distressing incident unfolded in the Ofosu area, where the kidnappers initially demanded a staggering N20m ransom.
Ransom Ordeal Shared on Social Media: Sefiu, Kareem’s son, turned to social media, urgently pleading for help and exposing the kidnappers’ demand. The family learned about the kidnapping while their loved ones were returning from a party in Osogbo, Osun State, as the abductors contacted them using a phone taken from the travelers.
Ransom Paid, Father Released: In a recent update, Sefiu shared the welcome news of his father’s release, disclosing that a ransom of N3m was paid. The incident sheds light on the alarming trend of ransom demands in highway kidnappings. However, the police are yet to provide clear details about their involvement in the rescue mission.
Police Confirmation Raises Questions: Funmilayo Odunlami, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the release of the kidnapped victims. However, uncertainties persist regarding police intervention and whether a ransom was indeed paid. The lack of transparency raises concerns about the strategies employed by law enforcement in handling such incidents.
Similar Kidnappings Highlight Growing Concerns: This incident is part of a series of high-profile kidnappings, including the recent abduction of six sisters in Abuja. The FCT Police Command shared details of successfully rescuing the Al-Kadriyar sisters and other victims from a bandits’ den in Kajuru forest, Kaduna State. A joint effort involving police and soldiers resulted in the safe recovery of 23 abducted persons.
Conclusion: As the nation grapples with the persistent challenge of kidnappings, there is mounting pressure on the government and law enforcement agencies to bolster security measures on major highways. While the successful rescue of victims provides a glimmer of hope, urgent attention and strategic intervention are crucial to addressing the underlying issues contributing to the surge in kidnappings.
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