Gunmen kidnap bank’s Operations Manager in Bayelsa

Suspected to be kidnappers in military fatigue have kidnapped the Operations Manager of a new generation bank, Mrs Nneka Ugonochie in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The man was said to have been kidnapped around 7 am on Friday at the Yenizue-Gene suburb of the state capital.

The 42 years old victim, who is said to be an indigene of Owerri in Imo State, was abducted around the Otiotio junction axis of the Isaac Boro Expressway by four armed men, who rode in a red Lexus SUV while driving to her office.

According to security sources, the victim had been warned to relocate from her area of residence, which is adjacent to the residence of a celebrated kidnapper now facing trial.

It was also gathered that some police personnel had provided security to her residence but the arrangement was jettisoned due to the cost of logistics.

A security source, however, told newsmen that the abduction may be linked to members of the remaining gang of the “celebrity kidnapper.”

Confirming the abduction of the banker, the state Commissioner of Police, Romokere Ibani, said: “On June 16, 2023, about 0700hrs, four armed men dressed in military camouflage, operating with a red coloured Lexus SUV accosted Mrs Nneka Ugonochie, 42 years, on Tamara Road, Otiotio, Yenagoa, while driving to her office.

“Tactical teams were alerted to embark on a rescue operation. The kidnappers abandoned the Lexus SUV with the number plate BWR 552 AW on the East-West Road.

“Investigation is ongoing to rescue the victim and arrest the perpetrators.”