Dakat was abducted on Sunday by terrorists that have left Plateau State a waste land
By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
Freedom has finally come the way of the paramount ruler of Gindiri in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Charles Mato Dakat, who was abducted from his palace by bandits on Sunday at about 1.00 am.
He has been reunited with his family.
His kinsmen who spoke to TheNiche had feared that their monarch may spend the New Year in captivity.
His release has, therefore, come to them as a big relief and a New Year gift from God.
The military confirmed Dakat’s release on Friday.
The abductors thereafter demanded N500 million ransom two days later on Tuesday, on December 28.
It could not be ascertained as at press time if any ransom was paid .
The military said eight of the abductors were arrested.
A statement by the information officer of Operation Safe Haven, Major Ishaku Takwa, reads: “While the Paramount Ruler of Gindiri in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Chief Charles Mato Dakat was with his abductors, the commander Operation SAFE HAVEN Major General Ibrahim Ali placed the troops deployed at Gyanbus on red alert and hot trail of the perpetrators.
“Consequently, eight suspects were arrested in connection with the kidnap incidence and are being interrogated.
“Following this development, the paramount ruler early this morning of Friday 31 December 2021 was released by his abductors.
“Meanwhile Operations SAFE HAVEN is still very much on ground to ensure all those involved in the kidnap of the traditional ruler are arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.”
