After N150m ransom demand, Traditional Ruler, other kidnapped victims escape from gunmen
After N150m ransom demand, Traditional Ruler, other kidnapped victims escape from gunmen
The traditional ruler of Bayagan community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, has regained his freedom after escaping from his captors on Sunday evening.
Salami was reportedly freed alongside six other victims who had been abducted. Community members told the Tribune that their escape followed a coordinated offensive by local vigilante groups, who stormed the forest where the victims were being held.
According to residents, the vigilantes’ sudden raid created an opportunity for the hostages to flee the kidnappers’ den, bringing an end to the ordeal.
“The vigilante team launched an attack on the bandits deep in the forests and engaged them in a fierce battle around the Eku Idaji area, close to Igbaja.
“Although the Baale and the six other escaped persons are yet to arrive in the community, they have made contact with members of the community, who confirmed what happened,” he said.
It was reported that the kidnappers had initially demanded N150 million from the community for the release of the traditional ruler.
Alhaji Kamilu Salami was abducted around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday when a group of armed bandits, carrying AK-47 rifles, attacked his farm.
