By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Benue State Command, have confirmed the rescue of thirteen kidnapped passengers who were whisked away by armed bandits along the Otukpo-Adoka road while traveling from Enugu to Abuja.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, who confirmed the development in a press statement, noted that the rescue followed sustained search and rescue operations by operatives of the command in collaboration with local security personnel.
He explained that the latest rescue operation represents a significant breakthrough in the command’s efforts to disrupt the activities of kidnappers, stressing that through intense search and rescue operations, operatives acting on credible intelligence embarked on a night operation which culminated in the successful rescue of the victims at Amla-Cho forest.
Gun battle with kidnappers
“Although the suspects fled the scene under the cover of darkness, the kidnapped victims were successfully rescued unhurt. While continuing with the search and rescue operations, operatives engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, during which one of the victims was neutralised. An AK-47 rifle and five rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the scene,” the statement added.
According to the statement, the rescued victims were taken to a medical facility for medical attention and thereafter transported to their respective destinations in a chartered bus.
CP commends operatives
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the police personnel for their courage, resilience and sustained efforts which have led to the safe rescue of the victims.
He assured members of the public that the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to sustain operations against criminal elements across the state.
