Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced yesterday that the mastermind behind the abduction of 20 medical students in Gboko, Benue State, was killed during a rescue operation.
News About Nigeria reported that the students were kidnapped while travelling to Enugu for a Catholic Medical Students Conference.
During a press conference at Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun, joined by Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, university officials, police commissioners, the rescued students, and their parents, revealed that two other members of the kidnapping gang were arrested and are providing valuable information to dismantle the criminal network.
Egbetokun revealed that the successful rescue, which was carried out without paying ransom, was achieved through a coordinated effort involving security intelligence, cooperation with other security agencies, and the dedication of highly skilled police officers.
He said that the officers engaged the kidnappers in a tactical offensive, resulting in the neutralisation of the gang leader and the recovery of his weapon.
“The kingpin of this notorious gang was neutralised during an exchange of fire with our operatives, and two other members of the gang are currently in custody, providing valuable information that will help us dismantle their criminal network,” Egbetokun stated.
He extended his appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser, other security agencies, and local vigilantes for their crucial roles in the operation.
Egbetokun assured Nigerians that the police would continue to use all lawful means to protect lives and property and bring criminals to justice.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by Commissioner for Finance Hon. Michael Oglegba, promised to support the reintegration of the rescued students into their university communities.
The Vice Chancellors of the University of Jos and the University of Maiduguri, Prof. Tanko Ishaya and Prof. Aliyu Shugaba, respectively, expressed relief at the students’ safe return and highlighted plans for post-traumatic counselling.
The Second National Vice President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Ushakuma Anenga, represented by Simon Ogenyi, expressed the association’s joy over the students’ release and wished them a speedy recovery from their physical and emotional trauma.
