The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced the successful rescue of 20 abducted medical students and revealed that a notorious kidnap kingpin was killed during the operation.
Two other members of the criminal gang were arrested and are now in police custody, providing valuable information to dismantle their network.
The medical students, who were abducted in Benue State on August 15 while travelling to Enugu, were rescued along with five other passengers and two victims who were already in the kidnappers’ custody.
The operation, carried out on August 22, was described by Egbetokun as complex and challenging, requiring meticulous planning, coordination, and significant resources.
“I am pleased to inform you that the kingpin of this notorious gang was neutralised during an exchange of fire with our operatives,” Egbetokun stated.
“Two other members of the gang were arrested, with their weapons recovered. These individuals are currently in our custody, where they are providing valuable information that will help in dismantling their criminal network and prevent future occurrences of such abductions.”
Egbetokun emphasised that the operation was successfully executed without the payment of any ransom. He also extended his appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) for their support, highlighting the personal commitment of NSA Malam Nuhu Ribadu to the operation’s success.
“The rescue operation was painstakingly difficult and complex, requiring not only the deployment of massive resources but also physical courage, meticulous planning, and coordination,” Egbetokun added.
“I must place on record the personal commitment of the NSA, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to the success of the operation that led to the successful rescue of the victims.”
He further acknowledged the contributions of other security agencies and local vigilantes who played crucial roles in ensuring the success of the mission.
“The successful rescue of the victims is a demonstration of what can be achieved through teamwork for a common goal,” Egbetokun remarked.
During the handover of the students to their respective Vice Chancellors in Abuja on Sunday, the Vice Chancellors commended the Nigeria Police and other security agencies for their efforts in securing the students’ release without any harm or payment of ransom.
Prof. Tanko Ishaya, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, noted that the university management has made plans to address the trauma associated with the kidnapping experience for the affected students.
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