LAGOS OCTOBER 28TH (URHOBOTODAY)–THE fragile peace being enjoyed by Ughelli residents, was Sunday night threatened, following the kidnap of the proprietor of Shekina Medical Centre, Dr Richard Kofi by gunmen.
Meanwhile, Dr Richard Kofi in the early hours of yesterday escaped from his kidnappers den after a serious fight with one of the kidnappers who was keeping eyes on him in the hideout.
The gunmen numbering over six, according to sources intercepted their victim as he was driving into his hospital premises at about 7:30pm, adding that he was whisked away by the gunmen before they could realize what was happening.
The source, who pleaded anonymity said security operatives were immediately alerted, adding that; “the police, soldiers and men of the Ughelli vigilante group swung into action immediately.
“They were still trailing him when suddenly we heard of his escape from the clutches of his kidnappers.” Narrating his ordeal, Dr Richard Kofi said; “I was driving to the hospital at about 7:30pm when I noticed a car behind me close to Oharisi Primary School but I dint take it serious.
“I was approaching the hospital gate when suddenly the car that was following me behind intercepted me; behold! The four doors opened and the guys came out heavily armed. I am sure they came with two cars because other guys came out from nowhere.
“They quickly forced me into the back seat of my car after ordering me from the driver’s seat and zoomed off. I was blindfolded and taken into the bush. Two of the boys were asked to keep eyes on me in the bush and I told them ‘I be bad market o! I no get money o!’
“As luck would have it at about 7am, one of the boys left this morning leaving one behind; so I pleaded with him to allow me escape but he dint listen. At a point, I picked up courage and fought him. But as I made way to escape after hitting him hard, I dint know he was equipped with a cutlass, so he gave me a cut on my head.
“On sighting my blood, I picked a stick close to me and used it on him and he decided to run so I chased him to a point and find my way out of the bush. By the time I came out on the road, I saw welcome to Oviri-olomu it was only then I knew where I was.
“I was there when security operatives who were searching for me came and brought me to the hospital for treatment.” Confirming the incident, the Area Commander, Ughelli Area Command, Mr Awosola Awotunde said; “we have recovered the car in Warri and 10 persons have been arrested in connection with the kidnap.
“The police is carrying out thorough investigation into the matter. I can assure you the culprits will be brought to book. We are not leaving any stone unturned in curbing criminal activities in the area. You know, Christmas is coming and the boys are looking for money; we will show them. Ughelli and its environs is not a safe haven for hoodlums.”
Source: Vanguard