Kidnapped Dangote cement workers regain freedom

The kidnapped workers of Dangote Cement Company, located in Okpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, have regained their freedom.

News Tellyvreports that they finally regained freedom after spending two weeks in the kidnapper’s den.

The victims were said to have been released on Sunday, May 26, 2024, after allegedly paying an undisclosed sum for ransom.

A local, who spoke on condition of anonymity said the ransom was allegedly paid to the kidnappers within the Kabba area of Kogi State.

The source said the ransom was allegedly paid for eight victims after four victims had earlier been rescued by security operatives.

He added that two of the rescued eight victims are currently receiving treatment due to the trauma experienced in the hands of the kidnappers.

News Telly  recalls that the workers were abducted on May 13, 2024, at 6 pm after the close of work.

It also recalled that the abductees, who were 12 in number, were said to be going to Okpella town in a Coaster bus from the cement factory after the close of work when they were kidnapped by gunmen.

The Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, who confirmed the release of the victims, however, said he was not aware of the payment of any ransom.

Nwabuzor, however, said seven persons were abducted by the kidnappers and not twelve.

He added that four of them had earlier been rescued by a team of security personnel in collaboration with vigilantes and hunters, while the remaining three victims were released a few days ago by the abductors.

He said the four victims were rescued with gunshot injuries inflicted on them by their abductors.