BAYELSA GOVT REGRETS ABDUCTION OF DUTCH NATIONALS, INTENSIFIES SEARCH AND RELEASE OF ABDUCTEES

08/05/2014

BAYELSA GOVT REGRETS ABDUCTION OF DUTCH NATIONALS, INTENSIFIES SEARCH AND RELEASE OF ABDUCTEES

The Bayelsa State Government notes with regret, the unfortunate incident of the kidnap of three Dutch Nationals at Letugbene community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The Government wishes to state for the records that, the three Dutch Nationals were escorted into the Niger Delta, through Warri in Delta State, by a Non Government Agency (NGO), without any prior notice to the Governments and security agencies of both Bayelsa and Delta States, not until they were abducted by the gunmen.

While, the Government of Bayelsa State appreciates and welcome visitors, especially foreigners, it is important that, the Government and security agencies are put on notice of such visits. But, sadly, this was not done in this case.

It is, however, gratifying to state that, the Bayelsa State Government and security agencies are on a serious manhunt for the Dutch Nationals and their captors.

Meanwhile, Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has assured the Dutch Ambassador to Nigeria, John Groffen that, everything humanly possible was being done to secure the release of the three Dutch Nationals.

The Governor, who gave the assurance, when the Ambassador visited him at the Bayelsa House in Abuja, expressed regret over the incident, adding that, the Government in collaboration with the security agencies are working round the clock to ensure the safe release of the victims.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State