A large-scale manhunt is underway as security operatives race to rescue a kidnapped Defence Headquarters official, Lieutenant Cynthia Akor, and two others abducted in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Hobnob News has learned that the kidnappers are demanding a staggering N100 million ransom for the release of the victims.
Gunmen seized Lieutenant Akor, a Nigerian Navy officer attached to the Defence Headquarters, along with two other individuals, from their residence in the Mpape area of the FCT on Friday night. A source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the kidnappers have contacted the families of the hostages, issuing the exorbitant ransom demand.
“About three people were kidnapped on Friday night in the Mpape area. A DHQ official, Akor, was among them. The kidnappers have already reached out to their families and are demanding N100m ransom,” the source revealed.
Despite attempts to reach the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, and the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, for official comment, they had not responded at the time of reporting.
The spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, Josephine Adeh, initially stated that she would confirm the incident and provide further details. However, she had not provided an update at the time of filing this report.
A security source has confirmed that a joint operation involving police officers and military troops has been launched to rescue the abducted victims. “The operation to rescue her and others has started and is ongoing. Police and soldiers are already on it,” the source stated.
The abduction of a Defence Headquarters official and the substantial ransom demand highlight the escalating security challenges in the FCT. The ongoing rescue operation underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation. Hobnob News will continue to monitor the developments and provide updates as they become available.
