The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful rescue of seven more students from the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara. This brings the total number of rescued students to 27, following an abduction on the university campus on the evening of Thursday, May 9, 2024.
SP William Aya, the spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, confirmed the latest rescue in a statement released on Thursday in Lokoja. According to Aya, a combined team of police officers, Department of State Services (DSS) personnel, and traditional hunters have been actively involved in the rescue operations. The first 20 students were rescued in batches: nine in the first batch, five in the second, and six in the third.
The rescue efforts received a significant boost with the deployment of the Air Component of the Police Security Apparatus, including a specially trained helicopter crew for aerial surveillance and monitoring. This deployment, initiated by Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, took place on Tuesday and has been instrumental in the ongoing rescue operations.
In his statement, Aya emphasized the importance of continuing the rescue efforts until all abducted students are safely returned and the perpetrators are brought to justice. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various security agencies, local vigilantes, and hunters, which have been pivotal in the rescue operations.
“The Kogi State Government and the university community are pleased with the progress of the rescue operations and commend the cooperation and synergy among the security agencies, local vigilantes, and hunters,” Aya said.
Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police for the deployment of the Air Component and to the security personnel, vigilantes, and hunters for their dedication and patriotism. He also thanked the people of Kogi State and the press for their concern and support throughout the ordeal.
The police have reassured the public that efforts will continue unabated until all kidnapped students are rescued and the kidnappers are apprehended and prosecuted.
