By Taiwo Niyi
The Kwara State Police Command has successfully rescued eight students kidnapped from the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) in Osara, Kogi State, on May 9, 2024.
This information was disclosed in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, and made available to journalists in Ilorin, Kwara State.
According to the statement, armed gunmen invaded the university on the night of the kidnapping, firing shots and abducting several students during their tutorials.
The swift response by Kogi State Police and other security teams led to the immediate rescue of 21 students, who have since been reunited with their families.
However, the kidnappers managed to escape with the remaining students into Kwara State.
Commissioner of Police for Kwara State, CP Victor Olaiya, promptly mobilised tactical teams from the Command and the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The operation included the military, local vigilantes, and Police Hi-Tech Intelligence assets.
Additionally, Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, deployed the Police Air Wing to conduct aerial surveillance over the forests in Ifelodun L.G.A., where the kidnappers were hiding.
After days of concerted efforts, the joint operation led to the successful rescue of eight students. The rescued students are:
Anate Hanifat Oyiza, 19, Damisa Rasidat Ometere, 17, Ahmed Tijani Fatimah, 21, Obakachi Mashkurah Onyioyiza, 17, Oloruntoba Blessing Kemisola, 23, Omojo Godwin, 19, Abdulrafiu Abdulmakik Enesi, 19 and Musa Oseni, 19.
These students were brought to the Divisional Police Headquarters in Oro-Ago, Kwara State, for medical attention.
However, the statement noted that upon their arrival, soldiers on patrol forcefully took custody of the students from the police without following proper handover procedures.
This action, described by the Kwara State Police Command as disrespectful and unacceptable, will be reported to higher authorities.
The rescue operation continues, with ongoing efforts to locate and apprehend any remaining kidnappers hiding in the forests of Kwara State.
CP Victor Olaiya expressed his gratitude to IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun and all security operatives involved in the operation.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to prevent future incidents.
Olaiya reassured the residents of Kwara State of the police’s commitment to eliminating criminal elements and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens
