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10 herdsmen abducted, N4m, AK-47 rifle demanded as ransom

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By Famous Ozobo

Abductors of ten herdsmen in Anambra state has requested the sum of N4million and AK-47 rifle as ransom for their release.

The incident reportedly took place at Obene community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State at the early hours of Saturday.

The incident is causing panic in the area for fear of possible reprisal by herders in the state.

However, the South East Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Gidado Siddiki confirmed the incident to newsmen, adding that the abducted herders were his members.

According to Siddiki, the incident occurred at Fulani settlement at exactly 1.30am on Saturday, when the herders and their cattle were asleep.

“The cattle herders were attacked at their settlement while asleep, and their herds numbering about 300 forcefully taken away by the gunmen numbering about 40.

“The men invaded the area with sophisticated weapons, including guns cutlasses, sticks and charms.

“The kidnappers have established contact with their victims families, demanding N4million and one gun as ransom.

“As I speak to you now, I have reported the incident to the Police and DSS for prompt action,” he said.

The Miyetti Allah chairman, begged the abductors to release his members and their cows, adding that those whisked away were mere herders, who were struggling to eke out a living.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ikenga Tochukwu, also confirmed the incident.

He stressed that the leadership of Miyetti Allah in the state should come up with more information that would enable the Police to commence aggressive investigation into the matter.

“Yes, we are aware of the incident, but we want the Miyetti Allah leadership to supply us with more information, since the Kidnappers have established ransom contact with the victims families.”

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