IGP Hands Over Rescued Medical Students To VCs

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, handed over the 20 kidnapped medical students of the universities of Jos, and Maiduguri to their respective vice chancellors at the Force Headquarters (FHQ in Abuja.

At the briefing ceremony, which had a representative of the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the police chief, assured of the operational readiness of the Force to rescue all hostages still being held by their abductors.

While reiterating the earlier position that no ransom was paid, Egbetokun disclosed that officers engaged the suspected kidnappers in a “well-coordinated tactical offensive.

His words: “Among those rescued were 20 medical students of the University of Jaws and University of Maiduguri who were cruelly taken, abducted while in transit to Enugu on 15th, August, 2024.

“Other passengers, five of them, and two other victims who had previously fallen victim to these heinous criminals were also freed. The successful rescue of these 27 individuals was achieved without the payment of any ransom.

“This success was made possible through the support received from the office of the NSA, the activation of the security network, intelligence and synergy with other security agencies, community engagement, and deployment of our highly skilled and tactical officers whose dedication, bravery, and precision in executing their duties are truly commendable.

“During the operation, our officers engaged the kidnappers in a well-coordinated tactical offensive. I am pleased to inform you that the kingpin of this notorious gang was neutralised during an exchange of fire with our operatives while two other members of the gang were arrested and their weapons recovered.

“These individuals are currently in our custody where they are providing valuable information that will help us dismantle their criminal network and prevent future occurrences of such abductions.

“It is pertinent to state that rescue operations of this magnitude are painstakingly difficult and complex, requiring not only deployment of massive resources, but also physical courage, meticulous planning, and coordination.

In this regard, I must extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Office of the National Security Advisor whose support was instrumental in this operation.

“I must place on record the personal commitment of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to the success of the operation that led to the successful rescue of these victims. Mr. President gave us a marching order. He told us that he wants his children back.”