By kawaekwune Jeffrey
The Nigeria Police Force has announced that the successful rescue of 20 medical students who were kidnapped on August 15, 2024, in Benue State was done without payment of ransom.
According to the Police, the rescue operation, which involved collaboration between various security agencies, local communities, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), took place in the Ntunkon forest on August 23, 2024.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed in detail via a social media post that the operation was carried out without the payment of ransom. He emphasized that the release of the captives was achieved through tactical and professional methods. Adejobi also thanked all parties involved in the operation for their efforts and resilience.
This development has elicited excitement amongst families of those released as they reunite with all their family members and loved ones.
It would be recalled that initial reports had suggested that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N50 million, but the police confirmed that no money was paid for the students’ release. Adejobi expressed hope that this successful operation would serve as a significant step in the fight against kidnapping in Nigeria. However, the police did not disclose whether any of the kidnappers were apprehended during the operation.
