Abducted medical students: ‘No kobo was paid to release them’ —Police

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful rescue of 20 medical students and others abducted in Benue State.

The victims, who were held in the Ntunkon forest in Ado Local Government Area, were freed on Friday without any ransom being paid, according to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi.

The rescue operation, carried out by the office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), involved the use of three helicopters. The operation led to the arrest of several suspects and the neutralization of others.

The group, including medical students and accompanying doctors, was kidnapped on August 15 while en route to a medical convention.

The statement emphasized that “without any ransom paid,” the release was achieved. “Contrary to some tweets and unconfirmed stories that some money was paid. No kobo was paid to release them. They were actually rescued tactically and professionally.”

“We commend the security agencies, locals, and ONSA for their commitment and resilience,” the statement added.

The abduction had drawn widespread condemnation on social media, highlighting the increasing concern over kidnapping incidents in Nigeria. The captors had previously demanded a ₦50 million ransom from the victims’ families.

In response to the abduction, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun immediately ordered a large-scale rescue operation. IGP Egbetokun condemned the kidnapping as “truly appalling, callous, and unacceptable.”

He stated, “In a display of unwavering commitment to the rescue, safety, and well-being of the young Nigerians, the IGP has ordered the prompt deployment of a substantial number of human and technical resources to augment the manpower of the Benue State Command and ensure the swift rescue of our beloved students.

This initiative encompasses the mobilization of additional tactical units from the FID-STS and FID-IRT, the deployment of advanced helicopters and drones, as well as the use of specialized tactical vehicles to facilitate the search and secure the safe return of the victims.”

“The Nigeria Police Force stands with the victims and their loved ones during this challenging time, and we are committed to ensuring the safe return of the students,” he continued.

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“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates the zeal of the force to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of the perpetrators and others alike, as the Nigeria Police Force is determined to sustain the fight against crimes and criminality, most especially kidnapping of Nigerians,” Egbetokun added.

He also appealed to the public to provide useful information and actionable intelligence that may aid the ongoing investigation and rescue operation.

“Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the nearest police station, the state’s command control number, or the FHQ via [email protected] and other helplines.”

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its mission to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians, and it will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace, stability, and the rule of law throughout the country,” the IGP concluded.