Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the killing of a notorious kidnap kingpin and the arrest of two abductors during a successful operation that rescued 20 medical students. The students had been kidnapped in Benue on August 15 while traveling to Enugu.
Egbetokun revealed that the rescue operation, which also freed five other passengers and two additional victims already in captivity, was accomplished without any ransom being paid. The kingpin was neutralized during an exchange of fire with police operatives, and two other gang members were apprehended with their weapons.
The IGP praised the operation’s complexity and the significant resources and coordination involved. He expressed gratitude to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, for his crucial support, as well as other security agencies and local vigilantes who contributed to the mission’s success.
The Vice Chancellors of the universities to which the students belong commended the police and security agencies for rescuing the students unharmed. Prof. Tanko Ishaya of the University of Jos noted that the institution would address the trauma experienced by the students as part of their recovery process.