Kidnappers of 92-year-old Bayelsa monarch demands N40m ransom

The kidnappers of the 92-year-old traditional ruler of Tombia, King Christian Otobotekere, have placed a ransom of N40m on him.

Otobotekere is the clan head of Ekpetiama Kingdom in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

It will be recalled that six gunmen stormed the monarch’s residence when he was about to have his bath and whisked him away in a waiting vehicle.

The gunmen burnt down the vehicle when they got to the waterside, and escaped in a speed boat.

It was gathered that the kidnappers had initially demanded a ransom of N100m but later reduced it to N40m, after much negotiation.

It was further learnt that the family members that had been apprehensive over the state of health of the octogenarian had their nerves calmed when they were allowed to talk to him and he assured them that he was healthy.

Reacting to the kidnapping, a family source disclosed that the assailants were working on wrong information regarding the monarchs health.

A police source said the police were aware of the demand, adding that efforts were on to ensure that he was rescued.

The source further added that the police were working with the Department of the State Security and other security agencies to ensure he was released.

“We are working with other security agencies on the monarch’s kidnap. We are on their trail and we would get to the location they are. The monarch would soon regain his freedom,” the source said. .

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