Gunmen in Abavo community, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, have reportedly escalated their demands after releasing Mrs. Anthonia Jegbefume, who was abducted a week ago along with her husband, Mr. Friday Jegbefume, who tragically lost his life during the abduction. Mrs. Jegbefume was freed over the weekend, but the gunmen have now taken two other individuals hostage.
The incident unfolded when the family managed to raise N1.7 million, a partial payment of the N7 million ransom initially demanded. Instead of releasing the hostages upon receiving the amount, the gunmen detained the individuals who delivered the money. Sources indicate that one of the hostages is a relative of Mrs. Jegbefume, while the other is a member of her deceased husband’s family.
According to a spokesperson from the Abavo Clan Union, who preferred to remain anonymous, the kidnappers are now insisting on the payment of the remaining N5.3 million ransom before they release the hostages. The community remains on edge as efforts are underway to secure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
Authorities are actively engaged in addressing the situation, although tensions remain high as negotiations continue with the gunmen.
