The inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, says a notorious kidnap kingpin was killed, and two abductors were arrested during an operation to rescue the 20 abducted medical students.
Speaking while handing over the students to their vice-chancellors in Abuja on Sunday, Mr Egbetokun added that the arrested suspects were in custody.
The 20 medical students were on August 15 abducted in Benue while in transit to Enugu.
Mr Egbetokun said the students, five other passengers and two other victims who were already in the captivity of the kidnappers were on August 22 rescued by the police.
He said the successful rescue of the 27 individuals was achieved without any ransom payment.
“I am pleased to inform you that the kingpin of this notorious gang was neutralised during an exchange of fire with our operatives. Two other members of the gang were arrested, with their weapons recovered.
“These individuals are currently in our custody where they are providing valuable information that will help in dismantling their criminal network and prevent future occurrences of such abductions,” he said.
He said the rescue operation was painstakingly difficult and complex, requiring not only the deployment of massive resources but also physical courage, meticulous planning and coordination.
“In this regard, I must extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), whose support was instrumental in this operation. I must place on record the personal commitment of the NSA, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to the success of the operation that led to the successful rescue of the victims.
“I also wish to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of other security agencies who partnered with us, as well as the local vigilantes who played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the mission,” he said.
The police chief said the successful rescue of the victims demonstrated what could be achieved through teamwork for a common goal.
In their remarks, the vice-chancellors of the two universities commended the police and other security agencies for rescuing the students unhurt and without ransom payment.
Tanko Ishaya, the vice-chancellor of the University of Jos, said the university management had concluded plans to work on the trauma associated with kidnap in the lives of the students.
(NAN)