A group of 14 students from Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) in Osara, Kogi State, who were kidnapped by bandits during an attack on Thursday night, have been successfully rescued.
The Commissioner of Police for the North-Central State, Mr. Bethrand Onuoha, revealed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lokoja.
The unfortunate incident occurred while the students were preparing for their first semester examinations scheduled to begin on May 13.
However, a joint effort involving security forces and local hunters led to the rescue of the 14 students. It’s worth noting that according to one of the rescued students, a total of 24 students were initially captured by the bandits.
The commitment of the security operatives remains unwavering, with ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of the remaining kidnapped students.
Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information, corroborated the rescue report and assured that the rescued students are receiving necessary attention.
The successful rescue operation followed closely after Governor Usman Ododo’s visit to the institution, during which he assured parents of his determination to ensure the safe return of all the abducted individuals.
The bravery and dedication of both local hunters and conventional security agents played a pivotal role in this achievement.
However, it’s unfortunate that during the rescue mission, a local hunter and a security operative sustained injuries. They are currently receiving medical treatment.
Mr. Fanwo expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for his unwavering support in securing the state and urged residents to report anyone with gunshot wounds to the appropriate authorities.
