PeakNews Online
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Sunday welcomed 20 medical students who were recently rescued from kidnappers by security forces, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The students, who appeared visibly shaken, were accompanied by their parents, guardians, a representative of the Benue State Governor, and the Vice Chancellors of the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos.
The students arrived at the Louis Edet House around 5:30 p.m., where they were greeted by top police officials, including the Commissioners of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Benue State.
The students, who were abducted by bandits in Benue State on August 15, 2024, while traveling for the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students’ annual convention in Enugu, were rescued on Friday. The IGP confirmed that no ransom was paid to secure their release.
In his address, IGP Egbetokun stated, “The successful rescue of these 27 individuals was achieved without the payment of any ransom. This success was possible through the activation of security intelligence networks, synergy with other security agencies, community partnership, and the deployment of our highly skilled and tactical officers.”
He also disclosed that the rescue operation led to a confrontation with the kidnappers, resulting in the death of the gang’s leader and the arrest of two other members of the criminal group. “These individuals are currently in our custody, providing valuable information that will help us dismantle their criminal network and prevent future occurrences of such abductions,” Egbetokun added.
The IGP highlighted the complexity of rescue operations of this nature, emphasizing the role of meticulous planning and inter-agency collaboration. He extended his appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser, other security agencies, and local vigilantes who played critical roles in the operation.
Addressing the public, the IGP urged cooperation with the police and other security agencies in such situations, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration. He reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stating, “We remain resolute in our commitment to rid our nation of criminal elements who seek to disrupt the peace and security of our society.”
He assured Nigerians that the police would remain vigilant and determined to create a safer environment for all citizens, stressing that law enforcement would not rest until every Nigerian could live without fear.
The rescue of the medical students and other victims is seen as a major success in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria.
