The Ondo State Security Network Agency, code-named Amotekun Corps, has confirmed the abduction of seven farmers in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

Adetunji Adeleye, the state commander of Amotekun Corps, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview on Monday in Akure.

Mr Adeleye said the farmers were kidnapped on Saturday and that Amotekun officers have been deployed to the forests in search of the victims.

“I can confirm the incident. Our men have been in the forests and are still there.

“I was there yesterday (Sunday), and we are hopeful they will soon be rescued,” he said.

Also, Olushola Ayanlade, the state police public relations officer (PPRO), confirmed the incident and said efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims.

“Yes, there was a case of kidnapping at the weekend in Itaogbolu, and the police have launched an operation to ensure that those who are responsible are apprehended.

“I cannot confirm the exact number of the victims to you because there is still an ongoing operation, but we are working assiduously to ensure their safe return,” Mr Ayanlade said.

According to a source, the kidnappers made contact with some families of the victims and demanded N100 million for their release.

One of the sources, who craved anonymity, said the victims were on the farm harvesting palm fruits when they were abducted.

“We didn’t hear from them until yesterday evening (Sunday) when the kidnappers contacted one of the family members, demanding a ransom of N100 million for their release.

“We’re still negotiating with their abductors,” he disclosed. 

(NAN)