On Thursday afternoon, gunmen who are suspected to be herdsmen reportedly kidnapped Benard Omafuaire, son of a former police officer, Chief James Omafuaire, and another individual on their way from Ugbokuli village to Ekiadolor in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. The incident happened when the victims’ vehicle, which was carrying palm produce, was ambushed by the kidnappers, who were armed with guns and believed to be about five in number.
According to reports, the truck driver managed to escape into the bush after he sighted the kidnappers ahead. He reportedly jumped off the vehicle and ran away. However, Bernard Omafuaire and the motorbike rider, who were behind the truck and were unaware of what was happening ahead, ran into the kidnappers, who took them away.
Chief James Omafuaire, who owns a palm tree farm in the area, disclosed that his son went to the farm to harvest ripe kernels. After loading the harvested palms into the truck, Bernard entered a motorbike riding behind the truck. The father expressed worry and fear for the safety of his son and the other victim, as he had not been able to reach them through their mobile phones, and no one had contacted him.
The retired police officer stated that he had reported the incident to the control room, and they advised him to make a formal report at the Ekiadolor police station. Bernard’s wife was at the station making an official report as at the time he spoke to journalists. Chief Omafuaire prayed and hoped that his son and the other victim would not be hurt.
When contacted, the Edo State Police Command spokesman, Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed that he was awaiting a full briefing on the incident from the police in the area.
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