In a significant development, the Kogi State Government officially confirmed the successful rescue of 21 kidnap victims in the Ajaokuta Local Government Area of the state.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Onogwu Muhammed, released a statement on Saturday evening, shedding light on the concerted efforts that led to the safe recovery of the captives.
The 21 victims, who had been abducted along the Ajaokuta-Itobe road in Kogi State on Thursday, were liberated on Saturday by a joint team of security operatives.
This collaborative effort included personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, the Civil Defence, and local vigilantes, demonstrating a unified approach to tackling the menace of kidnapping in the region.
According to the official statement, the victims, primarily travelers, had been forcibly taken to an undisclosed location within the dense forest around the Ajaokuta Local Government Area.
Responding promptly to the distressing incident, Governor Yahaya Bello issued directives to both security agencies and local vigilantes, emphasizing the urgency of actions to secure the freedom of the captives.
The governor also insisted on the apprehension of the perpetrators responsible for this reprehensible act.
Governor Bello’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens and residents under his jurisdiction was evident in his swift response.
The combined efforts of security forces yielded positive results within a remarkable 48-hour timeframe, leading to the successful release of all 21 captives.
The operation also resulted in the apprehension of some of the kidnappers, while those still at large are currently under pursuit.
Governor Yahaya Bello took the opportunity to commend the security operatives for their rapid and effective response, acknowledging their pivotal role in ensuring the success of the rescue mission.
In a stern warning to those with nefarious intentions, Governor Bello declared Kogi as a no-go area for all forms of criminal activities.
His administration, he affirmed, would spare no effort in safeguarding the peace and security of the state.
This decisive stance aims not only to address the immediate threat posed by criminal elements but also to deter potential wrongdoers from considering Kogi as a haven for illicit activities.
As the state celebrates the successful rescue operation, the Kogi government remains vigilant and resolute in its commitment to maintaining a secure environment for its residents.
The incident underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between security agencies and local stakeholders in addressing and curbing criminal activities within the region.
