The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command says it rescued 58 hostages at Udulu Forest, in the Gegu area of Kogi State, and other kidnappers hideouts in communities bordering the FCT.
The Police did not declare the number of hostages rescued at each kidnappers hideout visited but said a total of 58 hostages were rescued from the operation.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Command, Josephine Adeh, on Sunday, May 7.
Adeh said the police engaged the kidnappers in gun duels before rescuing the victims.
“The bandits were overpowered and escaped with various degrees of bullet injuries leaving behind their victims.
“The rescue is part of efforts by the Command leadership in a sustained joint operation with other security agencies and vigilantes and hunters from the various local communities to combat violent crimes in the FCT, rescue victims and bring perpetrators to book,” Adeh stated.
She added that the new FCT commissioner of Police, Haruna Garba, has vowed that, while effort is being sustained to prevent any further threats to the safety and security of residents, the Command would also not relent in ensuring the rescue of any resident held hostage by criminals, and as well bring the perpetrators to book.
The CP called for the cooperation of residents, especially in being security conscious and giving credible information to the Police.
Meanwhile, the Police said one Tama Jonathan, unfortunately, sustained injury during the rescue operation and died on the spot.
His remains have subsequently been released to his family for burial. The other 58 rescued victims are being stabilised in the hospital and would be reunited with their families,” the statement added.
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