Unknown gunmen have kidnapped a fish seller in Cross River State and are demanding five million naira as ransom from the family.

It was gathered that the victim, identified as Mrs. Rosemary Ofem, was kidnapped on September 26, 2023, alongside others in a boat along Ikang, in Bakassi Local Government Area, while on her way to buy fish for sales.

According to a family member, Ofem, who is the breadwinner of her family, left Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of the state, for Ikang when she was kidnapped.

The source said, “Yesterday (Oct. 1), they offered a special service for her in the church she worships, Church of God Mission, Ugep.

“The kidnappers called in October 2, (Monday) and asked her to communicate with her family.

“They demanded 5 million naira despite the woman’s cry and plea. Where is she going to get 5 million naira from, when it is only fish she sells to feed her family? Where is her husband going to get that kind amount of money? She is even the breadwinner of the family.

“She wasn’t alone. She was kidnapped from a boat with others who also went to buy fish”, the family source said.

When contacted to speak on the incident, the State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Irene Ugbo, could not be reached at the time of filling out this report. (The Guardian)