Some students of Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Okene, in Kogi State who were kidnapped have been successfully rescued by local hunters and security agents, the state government confirmed on Sunday.
Kingsley Fanwo, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, announced the rescue in a statement, although he did not specify the exact number of students rescued.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Williams Aya, revealed that 14 students had been rescued.
Fanwo explained that the rescue operation involved local vigilante groups and security agents engaging the kidnappers in a fierce shootout.
The kidnappers, overwhelmed by superior firepower, fled with gunshot wounds, leaving behind the kidnapped students, who scattered to evade capture in the chaos.
The rescued students, along with other victims of abduction, have been taken to a medical facility for necessary medical attention.
Security forces are currently conducting extensive searches in the forests to ensure the safe recovery of all students still in captivity.
Despite the successful rescue operation, Fanwo noted that a local hunter and a DSS operative sustained injuries during the gun battle.
However, they are receiving medical treatment.
The Commissioner commended the bravery and gallantry displayed by the local hunters and security forces, particularly acknowledging the Department of State Services (DSS) for coordinating the operation based on credible intelligence.
Fanwo urged residents to report anyone with gunshot wounds in their communities to law enforcement agencies to aid in apprehending the fleeing criminals.
News About Nigeria reported that the abduction occurred on Friday while students were attending classes in preparation for the upcoming semester examination.
Gunmen stormed the classrooms, firing shots indiscriminately and abducting an unspecified number of students.
