The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the successful rescue of 27 individuals, including 20 medical students, who were abducted by a notorious criminal gang in Benue State. During the operation, the police neutralized the gang’s leader and arrested two of his associates, recovering two rifles in the process.
“President Bola Tinubu gave a marching order that the students must be rescued and brought out alive,” Egbetokun revealed while handing over the rescued students and other victims to the Vice Chancellors of the University of Jos and the University of Maiduguri in Abuja on Sunday night. “This success was made possible through the support received from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the activation of the security network, intelligence, 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.”
The IGP detailed that on August 22, 2024, the Nigerian Police Force successfully freed 27 citizens, including the 20 medical students from the University of Jos Teaching Hospital, who were abducted on August 15 while en route to a conference in Enugu. Among the rescued were 16 male and 4 female students, along with five other passengers and two additional victims who had fallen prey to the same criminal gang.
“The successful rescue of these 27 individuals was achieved without the payment of any ransom,” Egbetokun emphasized. “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 neutralized during the exchange of fire with our operatives, and his weapon was recovered, while two other members of the gang were arrested. 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.”
The IGP also extended his appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser, other security agencies, and local vigilantes for their roles in ensuring the success of the operation. “This success is a demonstration of what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal,” he added.
In a goodwill message read by Dr. Simon Ogenyi on behalf of the Vice President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Ushakuma Anenga, the NMA expressed its relief and gratitude for the rescue of the students. “The Nigerian Medical Association is excited by the news of the release of the 19 kidnapped students and doctors. We pray that this sad occurrence doesn’t happen again as we wish our students a speedy recovery from the physically and emotionally traumatizing situation of being in captivity for 8 days.”
The NMA also acknowledged the efforts of the government, security agencies, and the parents of the abductees during this challenging period. They further called on the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of other medical personnel still in captivity, including Dr. Ganiyat, who was abducted eight months ago in Kaduna State.
