From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Director of Public Communication, Kogi East Neighborhood Watch,(KENW), Wing Commander Iye Ayefu (rtd.) on Monday commended the security agencies in Kogi State for their swift and coordinated efforts that led to the successful rescue of 13 kidnapped passengers along Lokoja – Anyigba road.
In a statement issued on Monday evening and signed by the group Director said the successful operation demonstrated the effectiveness of synergy among the various security agencies operating in the State.
He stressed that the victims were rescued within 24 hours of the incident, describing the operation as “swift, coordinated and successful.”
“Kogi East Neighbourhood Watch wishes to particularly appreciate the officers and men of the 21 Battalion and the officers and men of NNS Lugard for their gallantry, courage and commitment to the rescue operation,” he said.
He added that the collaboration among the security agencies was crucial to the success of the operation, stressing that sustained cooperation would further strengthen efforts to combat kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the State.
Wing Commander Ayefu, however, expressed sadness over the death of a member of the vigilante group who was killed during the operation and sympathize with some people in the operation group that might have sustained injuries.
“On a sad note, a member of the vigilante group lost his life in the course of the exercise. KENW prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for God to grant strength and comfort to the family he left behind,” he stated.
The KENW Director also urged security agencies to sustain the momentum and intensify efforts to rescue other victims still being held by kidnappers in another location.
“Kogi East Neighbourhood Watch looks forward to the safe rescue of the victims of Ojuwo Olijo, who were kidnapped later and whose whereabouts are still unknown,” Ayefu said.
He called for continued cooperation among the police, military, vigilante groups, neighbourhood watch organisations and other relevant security stakeholders, noting that collective efforts remained critical to securing communities and protecting lives and property.
The group further assured residents of its continued support for legitimate security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace across Kogi East.
