Saturday, June 15, 2024 -The retired school principal kidnapped in his home in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Akparawa Ezekiel Paul has been released after a week in captivity.
The state police spokesman, ASP Timfon John,
who confirmed the development said the man regained freedom unhurt and has been
reunited with his family.
Elder brother to the victim and Arch-Bishop
of the African Church Nigeria, Augustine Paul Akpan disclosed shortly after he
was freed that he was released on Saturday morning by the kidnappers.
“We will be taking him to the hospital for
rest and treatment. We thank the police for their efforts and all those who
have prayed with us throughout the difficult period for his safe release,” he
said.
Meanwhile, the police said the kingpin of
the kidnap syndicate, nicknamed, “Taller” and other gang members notorious for
terrorizing the area have been arrested.
It was gathered that the gang have cells in
Ikot Abasi Akpan, Ikot Obio Nso, Ndon Eyo and Ndon Utim and neighbouring
villages along the Ekparakwa-Etinan highway where they hide victims till
ransoms are paid before releasing them.
Meanwhile, it is not ascertained if the negotiated ransom of N20 million which the abductors reduced to N5 million was eventually paid to secure his release.
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