Abductors of Akoko traditional ruler and three other persons along Owo/Akoko Road in Ondo State penultimate week have been arrested by men of the special weapons and tactics.
The Commissioner of Police, Oyeyemi Oyediran disclosed that the suspects have confessed to the crime.
One of the members of the family of the abductees, Muritala Olabode told newsmen that the suspects contacted the family of the traditional ruler and demanded N4million for the release of the four abductees in their capacity.
He said they also asked the family to buy rice with chicken from restaurant with soft drinks while bringing the ransom.
He added that he was the one who delivered the N4million ransom which, according to him, was contributed by traditional rulers, chiefs and individuals in the community.
He disclosed that only one of the kidnappers was on mask when they came to collect the money.
The ring leader of the gang identified Muritala as the one who came to deliver the N4million before the abductees were released.
It was also discovered that those who came to collect the ransom shortchanged the others who were guarding their victims when it was delivered.
They said the family of the victims only brought n2m after they had earlier confirmed the money was n4m.
The commissioner said: “On 4th of August, 2022, at about 1830hrs, based on information received that a gang of kidnappers numbering about seven attacked a toyota corolla car with reg. No. KAK 818 AE at Ago-Yeye, along Ikare/Owo Road and four occupants, (3 male and 1 female) were kidnapped and held hostage for three days in the bush.
“Upon the receipt of the complaint, men of the anti-kidnapping squad in synergy with that of oyo state police command swung into action which led to the arrest of the following suspects: Ilyasu Lawal ‘m’ aged 27, Muhammadu Abubakar Sidi ‘m’ aged 26Garuba Bature ‘m’ aged 36, Abubakar Dangy ‘m’ aged 20, Mohammed Mosere ‘m’ aged 25.
“Items recovered rom them include three barrel guns, five live cartridges, two face masks and two jack knives.During interrogation, the suspects confessed to the commission of the crime and the suspect will soon be charged to court.”
