The Police in Bayelsa on Sunday confirmed the rescue of Madam Betinah Benson, mother of Secretary to Bayelsa State Government (SSG),who was abducted on July 20 from her Ekeki residence in Yenagoa after 32 days in captivity.
The 80 years old mother was in a jubilant mood when she was handed over to her son on Sunday evening in the presence of relatives and security operatives.
The SSG said that a “token gift of N4 million and two android phones” were given to the kidnappers to secure her release.
The SSG described the payment as a token gift to the kidnappers and maintained that it was not ransomed as the kidnappers had earlier demanded N500 million.
He noted that even though five members of the family have been victims of kidnapping in the state, he vowed never to pay the ransom and trusted in the security agencies and God to secure the release of his mother.
“Mama is back to the House and I want to give thanks to God and the security team in the state.
“I am so happy that my mother is back. Even if I tell people that ransom was not paid, they will not believe me.
Bayelsa Commissioner of Police, Mr. Echeng Echeng confirmed this at the residence of the SSG shortly after handing over the 80-year-old to family members.
He explained that the pressure from the police led to her release.
”Our word to those involved in such vicious act is that it is a crime and no matter how involved you are, you will be arrested,” Echeng said.
