Abducted former Delta State commissioner regains freedom

Delta State Police Command has confirmed the release of the kidnapped former Commissioner for Technical Education, Joan Onyemachi Mrakpor, putting to rest speculations about her fate. Mrakpor (aka Ada Anioma), was reportedly kidnapped by unknown gunmen last Tuesday at about 4:30 p.m. inside the hall of King Jesus and I Church located on Ogajifo Street, off Delta Broadcasting Service Road, Asaba. The spokesperson for the Police, Bright Edafe, who confirmed the release, did not give details.

The Guardian learnt that police operatives were restless during the 10 days when the former House of Assembly and House of Representatives member was whisked away to an unknown destination. It was learnt that three persons, including the owner of a vehicle, were arrested in connection with the abduction, which claimed the lives of two police officers and Mrakpor’s driver. The kidnappers of the former Director General of Asaba Development Agency were said to have demanded a N1 billion ransom from the family before she was released. It was not clear whether or not any ransom was paid.