Unidentified gunmen today kidnapped Chief C.A.O. Otobotekere, paramount ruler of Tombia Community in Tenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The gunmen arrived the palace of the monarch in the morning and fired several shots to scare away people around the area, who scampered in various directions for safety.

The gunshots reportedly injured a food vendor in the area who is receiving treatment at Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital Okolobiri in Yenagoa Council Area.

Mr Asinim Butswat, Police Public Relations Officer for Bayelsa Command, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Yenagoa. He said the command had launched a manhunt for the kidnappers.

His words: “On the 23rd July, 2015, five unknown gunmen, who were heavily armed, went to the residence of His Royal Highness, Chief C.A.O. Otobotekere, in Gbarain Clan of Tombia Community, and abducted the chief.

“The gunmen forced him into a car and drove to Amassoma/Tombia Bridge. They burnt the car beyond recognition, took the victim and whisked away in a waiting speedboat to an unknown destination.

“A stray bullet from the abductors, injured a food vendor and he is receiving treatment at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri

“Marine Police, JTF, and the Anti kidnapping unit have moved into the creeks for rescue and possible arrest of the suspects.”