Kidnap victim released in Toco

$21,000 was dropped off early yesterday in Toco by a relative of Solis.

Solis, dressed in blue jeans, a blue top and sneakers given to her by the kidnappers, was found wandering along Cablitra Trace, Cumana Road, Toco, at 2.30 am yesterday.

She was taken to the Toco Police Station where she was met by relatives, and then medically examined by Dr Fe Reyes. Solis sustained mosquito bites to her face, neck, and arms and appeared traumatised by the whole ordeal. She told investigators that after being snatched on Saturday night, she was forced to walk approximately ten miles into a forested area by a cutlass wielding man.

The man took her to an abandoned house deep inside Monsegue Trace, Toco, where she was kept from Saturday night until early yesterday.

Solis was given water to drink and snacks.

She said one man guarded her for the entire period that she was being held.

She was allowed to speak with relatives on Monday afternoon and assured them that she was alright.

Early yesterday, she was taken from the house and forced to walk several miles towards Cumana, where she was met by a relative.

The girl’s father, Gregory Solis, said in a statement yesterday that Jade is safely home thanks to the many prayers and gestures of positive support received over the past four days, and as a result of the outstanding contributions from members of the Police Service, the army, the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and other specialised forces within the protective services.

He said Jade and the family are now concentrating on the critical healing process as the protective services continue to pursue those responsible for the crime.

Surrounded by close relatives, Solis spent yesterday at home recuperating from the ordeal.

Yesterday, officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad told Newsday that they know the identity of one of the abductors they are pursuing in the Solis kidnapping.

A warrant has since been issued for the arrest of the suspect.

Solis was snatched last Saturday night while having dinner with relatives at a beach house in Toco.

US$1 million was initially demanded for her safe return.