By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the release of 20 medical students and others abducted in Benue State.

A statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi on Saturday, said the victims who were held in the Ntunkon forest, ADO Local Government Area of Benue state, were rescued on Friday by the office of the National Security Adviser without payment of ransom.

A confirmed source told Channels Television that three Choppers were used for the operation, with few suspects arrested and others neutralised

The medical students and their accompanying doctors were kidnapped on Thursday the 15th of August while on their way to a medical convention.

The statement said, “Without any ransom paid. 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.”

News of the abduction of the students hit the media space last Friday, attracting reactions from Nigerians who condemned the rising rate of kidnapping in the country.

A few days after their abduction, their captors had established contact with the victims’ families, demanding a ransom of ₦50 million to secure the release of their hostages.

*IGP orders rescue*

Responding to calls for the rescue of the students, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, immediately ordered the rescue of the victims.

In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, the IGP condemned the kidnapping of students.

Egbetokun described their abduction as “truly appalling, callous, and unacceptable”.

He said, “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.

“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.

“The IGP equally appeals to the general public to provide useful information and actionable intelligence that may aid the ongoing investigation and the 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.”