The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the immediate rescue of 20 medical students who were abducted in Otukpo, Benue State. These students were en route to the annual convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students in Enugu when they were kidnapped.
In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP condemned the abduction, labeling it as “appalling, callous, and unacceptable.” The IGP emphasized the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring the students’ safety and swift rescue, deploying significant resources, both human and technical, to support the Benue State Command in the search effort.
The police response includes the mobilization of additional tactical units from the Force Intelligence Department’s Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS) and Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), as well as the deployment of helicopters, drones, and specialized vehicles to facilitate the search.
The IGP reassured the public of the force’s dedication to combating crime, particularly kidnapping, and encouraged anyone with useful information to contact the nearest police station or relevant authorities to assist with the rescue operation.
The Nigeria Police Force continues to prioritize the protection of lives and property across the nation and is committed to maintaining peace, stability, and the rule of law during this challenging period.