Nigeria - Security Detail Arrested In Connection With Kidnap Of Finance Minister's Mother
https://nigeriaafrica1.blogspot.com/2012/12/nigeria-security-detail-arrested-in.html
Two policemen have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of the Nigerian finance minister's 82-year-old mother, Delta State Police Commissioner Ikechukwu Aduba said on Wednesday.
Kamene Okonjo, mother of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who is also coordinator of the economy, was abducted on Sunday from her home in Delta state.
Aduba said the policemen were arrested on suspicion of having aided the kidnappers.
"It is a very sad development and our major concern now is to rescue Mama unhurt," Aduba told reporters by phone.
Criminal gangs regularly kidnap people for ransom in Nigeria, but it is rare for them to target members of the political elite.
"I'm not aware the kidnappers are demanding ransom and, even if they are, the police cannot get involved as that would be a signal for others to continue (abductions)," Aduba said.
The finance minister, a campaigner against corruption, has received threats in the past, according to her special adviser Paul Nwabuikwu.
Aduba said the policemen were arrested on suspicion of having aided the kidnappers.
"It is a very sad development and our major concern now is to rescue Mama unhurt," Aduba told reporters by phone.
Criminal gangs regularly kidnap people for ransom in Nigeria, but it is rare for them to target members of the political elite.
"I'm not aware the kidnappers are demanding ransom and, even if they are, the police cannot get involved as that would be a signal for others to continue (abductions)," Aduba said.
The finance minister, a campaigner against corruption, has received threats in the past, according to her special adviser Paul Nwabuikwu.
