The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the successful rescue of 20 medical students and their accompanying doctors who were abducted in Benue State. The victims, who were held captive in the Ntunkon forest in Ado Local Government Area, were freed on Friday through a tactical operation led by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), without any ransom payment.
In an official statement released on Saturday, August 25, 2024, the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, emphasized that no money was exchanged for the students’ release. “Contrary to circulating rumors, not a single kobo was paid to secure their freedom. They were rescued through a well-coordinated and professional operation,” Adejobi stated.
The abduction, which occurred on Thursday, August 15, had drawn widespread condemnation from Nigerians, who expressed concern over the increasing rate of kidnappings in the country. The students were en route to a medical convention when they were taken hostage by armed assailants.
Following the abduction, the kidnappers contacted the victims’ families, demanding a ransom of ₦50 million. The incident prompted immediate action from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who ordered a swift rescue operation.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, found the kidnapping of these students truly appalling, callous, and unacceptable,” the statement read. “In response, he promptly deployed significant human and technical resources to bolster the Benue State Command. This included tactical units from the FID-STS and FID-IRT, as well as advanced helicopters, drones, and specialized vehicles to ensure the safe return of our beloved students.”
The rescue operation, which involved the use of three helicopters, also led to the arrest of several suspects, while others were neutralized during the operation.
Egbetokun reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians. He appealed to the public for continued cooperation, urging anyone with relevant information to contact the nearest police station or reach out to the Force Headquarters.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians. We will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace, stability, and the rule of law throughout the country,” Egbetokun assured.
