The Kogi state government has commended joint security forces for the successful rescue of 21 kidnap victims in Dekina local government area, describing the operation as a display of tactical efficiency and effective inter-agency collaboration.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Tuesday in Lokoja, the government said the operation underscores the commitment of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government to tackle insecurity and make criminality unattractive.
The victims, eight males and 13 females, were rescued Monday, by troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters and vigilante groups.
The rescue followed reports of the abduction of commuters along the Alloma–Ejule–Itobe road axis. Acting on credible intelligence, security operatives carried out coordinated operations in the Egume and Ochaja forest areas, leading to the safe recovery of the victims.
One of the victims sustained a gunshot injury and was immediately taken to a medical facility for treatment.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting security agencies in their efforts to combat crime across the country.
He also commended the leadership and personnel of the various security agencies involved in the operation.
“Criminals will continue to regret their actions in Kogi state. We will not bow to those who threaten the peace and security of our people.
The state remains resolute in dealing decisively with all forms of criminality,” the governor said.
