The kidnapped corps members from Ondo State, who were released on Monday after a harrowing ordeal, disclosed that their families paid a ransom of N1 million each to secure their freedom. The abduction took place last Thursday around 11 pm at Omi Alafa Village in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area, as the victims, including four corps members and one artisan, were returning home after completing their National Youth Service Corps Orientation camp in Enugu and Abia States.
During the incident, the bandits fatally shot the driver and a passenger seated in front of the vehicle. The survivors recounted being forcibly taken into the forest, enduring terrifying conditions for four days. They described being physically assaulted by the kidnappers and subsisting on meager rations of garri and dirty water once daily.
Patience Andrew, one of the corps members, detailed the traumatic experience, stating, “We were subjected to brutal treatment and constant fear. Negotiations for our release initially demanded N30 million per person, which eventually reduced to N1 million each after prolonged talks.” She further narrated the desperate circumstances they faced, including the delivery of demanded items like food and drinks along with the ransom.
After being abandoned by their captors, the victims were rescued by the police, who had intensified efforts to locate them. The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the rescue operation led by the tactical squad, which culminated in the victims’ safe retrieval and subsequent medical attention before reuniting them with their families.
The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the region, prompting renewed calls for improved safety measures and vigilance against criminal activities.
