In what has been described as a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and banditry, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have successfully rescued thirty-one (31) kidnapped victims in separate coordinated operations in Edo and Taraba States.

The rescue missions, which occurred on July 11 and 12, were carried out by officers of the respective state police commands in collaboration with local security outfits and other security agencies.

Edo

In Edo State, police operatives on Friday, July 11, responded to a distress situation along the Fugar-Agenebode road in Etsako East Local Government Area, where suspected kidnappers had ambushed commuters, leading to the death of two persons and the abduction of several others.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Friday, the operatives swiftly launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation in the Obe Hill area, near the Ajaokuta axis.

“In the course of the operation, the rescue team engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel near Obe Hill, forcing the suspects to flee with various degrees of gunshot injuries,” the statement read.

Fourteen (14) abducted victims were successfully rescued during the operation, while efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Taraba

In a separate incident in Taraba State, police authorities said that on Saturday, July 12, at about 11:45 pm, armed men suspected to be kidnappers ambushed a white Toyota bus conveying 17 passengers from Enugu to Yola, Adamawa State, along the Wukari highway, shortly after Federal University Wukari.

The police said a swift response followed a distress call, as operatives mobilised in partnership with other security forces.

“On sighting the approaching security forces, the suspected kidnappers fled into the surrounding bush, leaving behind all 17 kidnapped victims unhurt,” ACP Adejobi stated.

He added that “efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing culprits and bring them to justice.”

Police chief’s reaction

Meanwhile, in his reaction, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their gallantry and prompt response in both states.

He noted that the outcomes reflect the reinforced commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to citizen protection and national security.

The IGP also reiterated the Force’s dedication to sustaining targeted operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks across the country.

“These operations will continue with renewed vigour,” the police chief assured.