On Sunday, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun announced that a notorious kidnap kingpin was killed and two abductors were arrested during the operation to rescue 20 medical students in Benue State.
The students, from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos, had been traveling to Enugu for the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students’ annual convention when they were kidnapped on August 15.
The abduction prompted a significant public outcry, leading the IG to deploy tactical operatives, including helicopters, drones, and specialized vehicles, to facilitate the swift rescue of the students.
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At the handover of the students to their vice-chancellors, Egbetokun confirmed that the suspects were in custody and clarified that no ransom had been paid for the students’ release, contrary to some speculations.
Egbetokun said, “This success was made possible through the support received from the office of the NSA, 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.
“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.”
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Egbetokun noted that the contributions of other security agencies and local vigilantes were crucial to the successful rescue of the students and other victims.
He said, “I also wish to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of other security agencies who partnered with us, as well as the local vigilantes who played a crucial role in ensuring the success of this mission. This success is a demonstration of what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal.”
The IG vowed to eliminate criminal elements from the country and ensure they are brought to justice.
He said, “We remain resolute in our commitment to rid our nation of criminal elements who seek to disrupt the peace and security of our society. The Nigerian Police Force will continue to employ everything at its disposal to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians.
“We are strongly determined to ensure that those who choose to engage in criminal activities are brought to justice. As we continue to advance our efforts in combating crime across the country, I assure you that we will remain vigilant, proactive, and relentless in our pursuit of a safer Nigeria where the security of every Nigerian and resident in our great country is our top priority. And we will not rest until every citizen can go about their daily lives free from fear and intimidation.”
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Egbetokun urged those held by kidnappers across the country to remain hopeful.
He said, “To those who are still in captivity and to their family members, they should not lose hope. If we can achieve this, then we can resolve all other kidnap cases that are still pending. Those that are still in captivity of kidnappers, there is hope that they will soon be rescued.”
Egbetokun, who noted that insecurity had reached a turning point in the country, added that it would soon decline.
He said, “So we have reached that point now that things will now start going back. It has gone up, it will now start declining. So that’s the point that we are at now.”
