Suspected pirates have kidnapped an operative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) and four civilians attached to the catering contractor working with Conoil Plc located in Koluama 1 in Southern Ijaw Local Government area of Bayelsa state.
It was learnt that the five victims were abducted while on their way to Koluama 1 with supplies for the contractor, NAN reports.
A family source to one of the seized oil workers told NAN on Monday that the abductors had contacted the family, demanding N25 million ransom.
Meanwhile, youths in the community have raised a search party to ensure the release of the abducted persons.
Spokesman of the NSCDC in Bayelsa, Solomon Ogbere, who confirmed the development, said the victims were dressed in plain clothes when they were attacked.
“I can confirm that we are in receipt of the report of kidnap. One of our officers and four civilians were kidnapped while heading to their location, where they protect Conoil facilities.
“They were all in mufti while returning to their base when they were attacked. An investigation is ongoing to track down the culprits,” he said.
Efforts to speak with the spokesperson of Conoil, Mr Abiodun Azeez, was not successful as he neither answered calls nor replied to the text message sent to his mobile phone.
