Kidnappers demand $300k for US hostage

In this undated photo provided by Mike Henry, Seattle missionary Rev Phyllis Sortor speaks at a distribution of wheelchairs in a town in Nigeria. Picture: Mike Henry

In this undated photo provided by Mike Henry, Seattle missionary Rev Phyllis Sortor speaks at a distribution of wheelchairs in a town in Nigeria. Picture: Mike Henry

Published Feb 26, 2015

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Abuja, Nigeria -

Nigerian police say that the armed men who abducted an American missionary earlier this week in southern Nigeria have demanded a ransom of nearly $300 000.

Kogi State Police Commissioner Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi said on Wednesday that Rev Phyllis Sortor, a missionary associated with the Free Methodist Church, was kidnapped from the Hope Academy compound in Emiworo on Monday morning.

Ogunjemilusi, along with senior police officers, visited the site of the abduction on Wednesday.

He said police are collaborating with security forces to ensure a secure return for Sortor.

He said the armed men thought they could get money by kidnapping Sortor because she is American, but discouraged negotiations.

The police commissioner said Sortor, among many projects, is working on one to mitigate disputes between local Fulani cow herders and farmers.

Sapa-AP

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