The family of twin teenagers abducted by suspected kidnappers in Edo State has confirmed their release, stating that the victims were freed only after a ransom was paid, contrary to claims by the state police command that they were rescued.
The twins were abducted following the killing of their father, Andrew Ilabeshi, during a violent attack on his residence in Afokpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.
A family source said the incident occurred on December 11 at Kalabar Quarters when armed men suspected to be kidnappers forcefully entered Ilabeshi’s home.
According to a resident of the area, the assailants gained access to the compound, switched off the deceased’s generator, and attacked him with machetes when he stepped outside to investigate the power outage.
“He was seriously injured during the attack and later died from the wounds,” the resident said.
The attackers were said to have subsequently abducted Ilabeshi’s twin children, Emmanuel and Emmanuella, both aged 16, and taken them into the surrounding bush.
Family members disclosed that the kidnappers later contacted them and demanded a ransom of N100 million before agreeing to release the twins.
They added that the teenagers were eventually freed after payment was made, disputing police claims that the victims were rescued unhurt through security operations.
The family appealed to the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the killing and abduction are brought to justice, while also calling for improved security in the community to prevent further attacks.
