THE Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the release of 20 medical students and others who were abducted in Benue State.
In a statement issued today by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, it was revealed that the victims, who had been held in the Ntunkon forest in the ADO Local Government Area of Benue State, were rescued yesterday by the office of the National Security Adviser without any ransom being paid.
A source confirmed that three helicopters were utilized in the operation, resulting in the arrest of a few suspects, while others were neutralized.
The medical students and their accompanying doctors had been kidnapped on Thursday, August 15th, while en route to a medical convention.
The statement emphasized, “No ransom was paid. Contrary to some tweets and unverified reports suggesting otherwise, no money was exchanged for their release. The rescue was carried out tactically and professionally.
“We commend the security agencies, local communities, and the Office of the National Security Adviser for their dedication and resilience.”
News of the abduction of the students first broke last Friday, sparking widespread condemnation from Nigerians who decried the escalating rate of kidnappings in the country.
A few days after the abduction, the captors contacted the victims’ families, demanding a ransom of N50 million for their release.
IGP Orders Rescue Operation
In response to the urgent calls for the students’ rescue, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun swiftly ordered a comprehensive operation to secure their release.
In a statement by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP condemned the kidnapping, describing it as “truly appalling, callous, and unacceptable.”
Egbetokun stated, “In a show of unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of these young Nigerians, the IGP has directed the immediate deployment of substantial human and technical resources to reinforce the Benue State Command and ensure the swift rescue of the victims. This operation includes the mobilization of additional tactical units from FID-STS and FID-IRT, the deployment of advanced helicopters and drones, and the use of specialized tactical vehicles to aid in the search and secure the safe return of the victims.
“The Nigeria Police Force stands in solidarity with the victims and their families during this challenging time, and we are committed to ensuring their safe return.
“The Inspector-General of Police reaffirms the Force’s determination to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of the perpetrators and others involved, as the Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its fight against crime, particularly the kidnapping of Nigerians.
“The IGP also urges the public to provide any useful information and actionable intelligence that could assist in the ongoing investigation and rescue operation. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the nearest police station, the state’s command control number, or the FHQ via [email protected] and other helplines.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians, and it will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace, stability, and the rule of law across the country”
