The Nigeria Police Force has rescued 31 victims in two daring operations against kidnappers in Taraba and Edo States, showcasing a renewed commitment to tackling insecurity across the country.
In Edo State, a swift intervention by police operatives and local vigilantes led to the rescue of 14 kidnapped victims after an ambush along the Fugar-Agenebode road in Etsako East Local Government Area.
The attack, which occurred around 7:20 p.m. on Friday, July 11, resulted in the death of two persons and the abduction of several others.
Spokesperson for the Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the joint rescue team launched a coordinated search-and-rescue mission in the Obe Hill area near Ajaokuta.
“The rescue team engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee with varying degrees of gunshot wounds,” he said.
In a similar operation in Taraba State, 17 passengers kidnapped along the Wukari highway were freed without harm.
The victims were travelling in a white Toyota bus from Enugu to Yola when they were abducted by armed men late Saturday night, July 12.
According to police accounts, operatives swiftly responded to a distress call at about 11:45 p.m. and mobilised alongside other security forces.
“On sighting the approaching security operatives, the kidnappers fled into the bush, abandoning the victims,” Adejobi stated.
Commending the operatives involved, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised their bravery and swift action.
He reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to citizen protection and national security.
“These successful outcomes reflect our reinforced dedication to dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding Nigerians,” the IGP said.
He added that targeted operations would continue across the country “with renewed vigour” to stem the tide of banditry and kidnapping.
Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects in both incidents.