Benue Police Confirm Release of Kidnapped Students

A dramatic turn of events has unfolded in Benue State, as the Police Command has confirmed the release of 20 students of the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos who were kidnapped by gunmen on August 15.

According to a statement by Sewuese Anene, the spokesperson of the Police Command, the students were rescued at 11:15 pm on Friday in Makurdi. The students were abducted in Oturkpo while traveling to Enugu for their annual Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students, FECAMDS convention. A House Officer, who was accompanying them, was also taken by the kidnappers.

While Ms. Anene declined to provide further details on the rescue efforts, she revealed that the victims have been released and details will be released tomorrow morning. The release comes five days after the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, deployed a tactical squad to Benue and ordered the commissioner of Police in Benue to relocate to Oturkpo.

NAN gathered that a combined team of security operatives coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser carried out the operation that ensured the freedom of the abducted students. The police and security agencies are still investigating the incident to uncover the motives behind the kidnapping and ensure the safe return of the students.

The news of the students’ release has brought relief to the families and friends of the victims, who had been worried about their safety.