Immigration officer, 2 others abducted in Lagos

Gunmen have abducted three persons, including an Immigration officer from Ishawo community in Ikorodu area of Lagos.

The immigration officer, identified as Peter Ofulue, is attached to Ikoyi Passport Office. The same officer, Daily Trust learnt, was kidnapped last week but was released only to be abducted again in his house on Sunday morning while preparing for church service.

A family source said, “When he was released, we were very happy. We were in the village in Delta State doing thanksgiving service when one of our brothers called that he had been abducted again. He was cleaning his car for church service to also celebrate his release when four gunmen stormed our house and took him. I am surprised that until now, his abductors are yet to contact us. His phones are switched off. I am calling on the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Fatai Owoseni, to do something urgently to rescue our brother.”

Another source said, “The family of the Immigration officer should look inward as there may be insider connection. How come he was abducted last week, released and he is now abducted again and in his house? If it is not insiders, the hoodlums are living in the same area. Also, he should be able to know if he offended anyone.”

A resident, Tunde Omoleye said, “Kidnappers are on the prowl in Ishawo and Ikorodu. Every day, one person is kidnapped either for ritual purpose or for ransom. Houses are being abandoned daily by landlords for fear of being abducted. It is a shame that we are being stolen like chicken daily.”

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police, Dolapo Badmos, could not be reached as calls and texts to her phone were not answered.