Photo: Kidnappers release Rivers State traditional ruler after collecting N1million ransom, inflict machete cuts on him

The abductors of the traditional ruler of Ndele community, in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, Goodluck Umetor, have released him after collecting N1 million ransom from his family members and inflicting machete cuts on him. The monarch was abducted last Monday April 2nd and taken to an unknown destination.

Recounting his ordeal in the hands of his abductors, the monarch who is receiving medical attention, told newsmen that his ATM card was taken from him and large sums of money was withdrawn from his account.

“The gunmen took me on a journey inside a deep forest. They blindfolded and dragged me.  We trekked about 60 kilometers before we arrived their base. They said they were hired to assassinate me, but, later, they changed their mind to collect ransom and free me. They inflicted marchete cuts on my head, back and other parts of my body. They collected all my four ATM cards and sent somebody to go and withdraw money from my account before collecting N1 million again from my family. They warned me that I should not block the accounts that they will be withdrawing money at will. They said if I block the accounts that they will come after me again. They also threatened to kill me if I try to give their identity to anyone”  he said

The state police command spokesperson, Nnamdi Omoni, who confirmed the release of the monarch, said efforts are being made to apprehend the abductors.