GUNMEN suspected to be kidnappers on Friday night kidnapped an eminent community leader and retired military brass, Major Azum Asoya and his wife Elizabeth, in Okpanam, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

They were reportedly kidnapped while returning from a funeral ceremony around 9.00 pm at Ogbeozoma Quarters, Okpanam.
Daily Independent gathered that the kidnappers had laid siege around Okpanam High School, for the Sports Utility Vehicle of the retired military officer before firing several gunshots to scare people. They consequently seized the couple and drove them away with the jeep escorted by the kidnappers’ vehicle.
When Daily Independent visited the residence of the 89-year-old retired officer, one of his sons, Gregory Asoya, said his father was yet to return since he went to the burial ceremony.
He, however, insisted that only his elder brother, Jude Esoya, could talk on the matter.
But a source close to the family told Daily Independent that the kidnappers on Saturday made contact with the family that the children of the Esoyas who are residing abroad should provide N30 million ransom for the release of their parents.
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Lucky Uyabame, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), confirmed the incident, saying no arrest has been made.
He, however, assured that the police are after the suspects.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Police command has arrested four kidnap kingpins who have been terrorizing Ugborodo Community in Warri South West LG Area.
They have been charged to court and remanded in prison custody.