Kidnapping is rising in Lagos State, Nigeria, with residents living in fear as criminals rake in millions of naira in ransom from wealthy victims.
Recently, kidnappers have abducted several high-profile individuals, including the owner of Globus conglomerate, who was allegedly kidnapped in Okota and held captive for a ransom of N100 million. The owner of Solid Rang Hotel was also kidnapped in Ejigbo and released after paying N80 million in ransom.
Last week, the owner of an eatery, identified as Nobis was abducted and kept in an undisclosed location for several days before his family rallied round and raised N10m, which they gave to the kidnappers before he was released.
According to PM Express, Governor’s Road in Ikotun, the kidnappers shot sporadically for almost 30 minutes without the visibility of any security agencies. In the ensuing confusion, a businessman identified as Chimex and three others were kidnapped and kept in captivity until each of them paid N4m before they were released.
The same story has played out in Igando, Idimu, Gowon Estate in Egbeda, and Agege areas of Lagos, where victims have been helplessly kidnapped and forced to pay huge ransom before they were released.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, has said that the police are aware of the kidnappings and are taking decisive actions to round up the criminals. However, the kidnappers continue to strike with impunity, leaving residents living in fear.(BusinessDay)
