Bayelsa SSG pays ransom as kidnappers release their own mother 34 days later

After 32 days in prison, Betinah Benson, mother of Bayelsa state government secretary Kombowei Benson, has regained her freedom.
The 80-year-old grandmother was kidnapped from her home in Ekeki, Yenagoa, the state capital, on July 20.

On Sunday, the Bayelsa commissioner of police, Echeng Echeng, confirmed her release at the SSG’s mansion.

According to the commissioner, she was released as a result of police pressure.

“Our message to individuals who are participating in such horrible acts is that it is a crime, and you will be arrested no matter how involved you are,” Echeng stated.
Three people have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping, according to NAN.

The SSG said the kidnappers were given a “token present of N4 million and two android phones” in exchange for his mother’s release.

The kidnappers had previously wanted a ransom of N500 million, according to the SSG.
“Mama has returned to the house, and I want to thank God and the state security team,” he stated.

“I am overjoyed that my mother has returned. They will not believe me if I tell them the ransom was not paid.

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“I refused to pay N500 million when they wanted it. I handed them a token to allow Mama to return home, even though I said I wouldn’t pay.”