by Oke Efagene

An 84-year-old ex-Biafran soldier, Azum Asoya (rtd) was kidnapped with his wife, on Friday night by unknown gunmen in his hometown, Okpanam in Oshimili North, Delta State.

It was reported that he was kidnapped while attending a burial ceremony at about 10.30 pm.

A family member confirmed the abduction to newsmen.

Vanguard reports:

The source said, “We have established contact with the kidnappers. They are demanding N30 million but we are begging them to release our father unhurt. That is the situation for now.”

When journalists visited the family compound, sympathizers were seen discussing the incident, pleading for his release.

Meantime, the state police command’s spokesman, Lucky Uyabame, has said four persons have been arrested for kidnapping two persons at Ugborodo community in the state following the combined effort of the Military, DSS (Department of State Services) and the Navy.

According to him, “they (names withheld) were arrested while others are at large in connection with abductions, following report from concerned elders and stakeholders of Ugborodo community.

“Suspects allegedly kidnapped two indigenes of the community, tied them and subjectd them to inhuman treatment.”