The Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kogi State, Kingsley Fanwo, has announced that the students who were abducted by gunmen at the Confluence University of Science and Technology in Osara have been rescued safely.
This was possible thanks to the efforts of local hunters and other security agents.
The rescue operation took place a few hours after the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, visited the institution to reassure parents of his commitment to rescuing the students.
In a press statement issued by Fanwo, he explained that the kidnappers were engaged in a fierce shootout by local vigilante men and security agents.
The kidnappers eventually succumbed to the superior firepower of the security forces and fled with gunshot wounds, leaving the abducted students behind.
The students also ran in different directions to avoid being caught up in the exchange of fire.
“Many of the students kidnapped and even other people in captivity have been rescued and taken to medical facilities for proper attention, while many others were also rescued in the early hours of today. Security agents are currently combing the forests to ensure all the kidnapped students are found and brought home safely
“In the sporadic gun battle to rescue our dear students, a local hunter and a DSS operative sustained injuries and they are currently receiving medical attention. We commend our local hunters and all the conventional security agents for their bravery and gallantry. Of special commendation is the DSS for acting on credible intelligence to coordinate a fearless confrontation with the outlaws. The security agencies have once again demonstrated why Kogi State will remain an uncomfortable place for bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements
“The success recorded so far is a clear testament to the readiness of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to ensure adequate and uncompromising security for the people of Kogi State. We urge residents to report anyone with gun wounds found in their communities to law enforcement agents.
