By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of the Managing Director of Fouani Company, Mohamed Fouani, which distributes LG and Hisense electronic products, along with three other foreigners on the Lagos waterway.
The incident occurred on Friday evening near the Falomo Bridge in Ikoyi, Lagos, while the victims were traveling by water from Apapa to Victoria Island.
The New Diplomat reports that the abductors have contacted the company and the victims’ families, demanding a ransom of $1.5 million.
While weighing in on the matter, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed the incident, said: “We got the report and we are looking into it.”
Meanwhile, a senior police officer, who also threw some light on the matter noted that the investigations are exploring all possibilities, whether the abduction was targeted or random. He emphasized the need to protect the victims’ safety by not disclosing specific details about the ongoing investigation.
“At the moment, we have the basic facts but we are investigating. I wouldn’t want to divulge the facts at our disposal so we don’t jeopardize their safety,” he said. “I also wouldn’t want to suggest it was a disgruntled employee, but rest assured we are not leaving any stone unturned.”
Regarding the alleged ransom, the officer acknowledged that while paying ransom is not advisable, families often feel desperate to ensure the safe return of their loved ones and may comply with the kidnappers’ demands.
In response to the abduction, the Marine Police have intensified patrols of the waterways. A marine police officer dismissed claims that the waterways are unprotected, especially at night, asserting that both Marine Police and Nigerian Navy patrols routinely monitor the area.
He said: “Our waters are always patrolled…This is why we are investigating whether it was a random abduction or it was planned. This is not the era of sea or river blindness anymore because the government at both federal and state levels have significantly equipped the relevant authorities with infrastructure and platforms for patrol of the waterways.”
