Abductors of Bayelsa SSG’s mother seek N500m ransom

Kidnappers reportedly demanded N500 million in ransom for Betinah Benson, mother of Bayelsa state government secretary Kombowei Benson.

Betinah was kidnapped on the night of July 20 in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa state, by gunmen dressed in military fatigues.

Another gang is claimed to have sought N200 million in exchange for the release of Tari Ajanami, the owner of the state’s Club 64 nightclub.

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

According to The Nation, investigators believe both abductions may have been orchestrated by the same organization.

A member of the club owner’s family was alleged to have revealed that the kidnappers had contacted them and wanted a ransom of N200 million.

“I was taken aback when they sought N200 million. “I hope and pray that our brother is released unharmed,” a family source stated.

Butswat Asinim, the state police spokesman, told Daily Times over the phone that the authorities were unaware of the abductors’ demands.

However, he stated that the police were working to ensure the abductees’ release.

“It’s something we’re not aware of. Abductors are not communicated with. It is our responsibility to ensure that the victims are released. We’re still looking into things, and I’m confident that our investigators will be able to save the victims soon,” he said.