23rd February, 2024
By Nathan Nwakamma
Two men identified as Lucky Oghenebrume, 53, Omobowho Okpowodo,52 were arraigned before Kaima High Court sitting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital on Friday over an alleged conspiracy and attempt to kidnap Mr Ebi Ayama, a brother to the state governor Douye Diri.
Police said the two suspects were arrested by men of the Operation Puff Adder unit in November 2023 at Mbiama community in Rivers for attempting to kidnap Ayama popularly known as Americana through intelligence gathering and detailed investigations.
According to the Police prosecutor, Oghenebrume who is wanted over alleged involvement in the abduction of one Fyneman in the Sagbama area of the state where a ransom of N50 million was paid was the mastermind of the plot to abduct Diri’s brother.
Oghenebrume, according to police, is a resident of Mbiama community and lives alone inside a massive compound, where he allegedly carried out the dastardly act.
He was also said to have relocated his family to Delta State to avoid being exposed.
The Police Prosecutor said the second suspect, Omobowho Okpowodo, was identified as the owner of the motor mechanic workshop, where the targeted victim carries out repairs on his vehicles.
Okpowodo, according to the police prosecution counsel, was allegedly overheard planning to abduct Ayama on his way from Ekeremor Local Government Area.
The two suspects pleaded not guilty.
The Presiding Judge, Justice Timipre Songi has adjourned the case until Feb. 27. (NAN)
NN/IAA