Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State have recovered 17 students kidnapped from an Islamic school in Lokoja, as security authorities ramp up attempts to liberate the remaining victims.
The students were kidnapped on April 26 at 11:45 p.m. when gunmen stormed Daarul Kitab School, an Islamic institution with an affiliated orphanage located in Zariagi near NNPC Road, Kabba Junction.
ASP Saliu Afusat, the state Police Public Relations Officer, claimed in a statement that 26 people were first abducted, including 24 students and the proprietor’s two wives.
Afusat added that after the event, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of ‘B’ Division, Lokoja, activated a joint security squad, which resulted in the rescue of 17 victims.
“Rescue operations are ongoing by joint security operatives comprising the police, military, and other security agencies to secure the safe release of the remaining nine victims,” she said.
Naziru Kankarofi, the state commissioner of police, has since visited the spot and instructed tactical teams to search the bush, gather intelligence, and conduct surveillance.
The leadership assured residents that efforts were underway to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the offenders and urged the public to offer trustworthy information.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State government denounced the attack, calling it regrettable and avoidable.
Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the state commissioner for information, stated that security personnel responded quickly, resulting in the rescue of some victims, while attempts continue to obtain the release of others.
