Security Agents, Local Hunters Free Abducted Kogi Varsity Students

By Ayodele Oni

Less than 72 hours after their abduction, Kogi State Government has announced that some of the students kidnapped by gunmen at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, (CUSTECH), Osara, have been rescued safely by local hunters and other security agents.

The State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed this on Sunday.

He said “Local vigilante men and security agents engaged the kidnappers in a fierce shootout and they succumbed to superior firepower and escaped with gun wounds, leaving the kidnapped students, who also ran in different directions to avoid being caught up in the fire exchange.

“Many of the students kidnapped and even other people in captivity have been rescued and taken to medical facilities for proper attention, while many others were also rescued in the early hours of today.”

He was, however, silent on where the rescue operation took place and whether any of the kidnappers was arrested in the encounter.

Fanwo added “Security agents are currently combing the forests to ensure all the kidnapped students are found and brought home safely.

“In the sporadic gun battle to rescue our dear students, a local hunter and a DSS operative sustained injuries and they are currently receiving medical attention.

“We commend our local hunters and all the conventional security agents for their bravery and gallantry. Of special commendation is the DSS for acting on credible intelligence to coordinate a fearless confrontation on the outlaws.

“The security agencies have once again demonstrated why Kogi State will remain an uncomfortable place for bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements.

“The success recorded so far is a clear testament of the readiness of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to ensure adequate and uncompromising security for the people of Kogi State.

“We urge residents to report anyone with gun wounds found in their communities to law enforcement agents.”