*One killed, kidnappers escaped with bullet wound injuries, says the Police
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has rescued 58 kidnapped victims who were held hostage at Udulu Forest, Gegu LGA of Kogi State, bordering Sardauna Forest, Nasarawa State, and other identified kidnappers’ den in communities contiguous to the FCT.
A statement from the command explained that the bandits/kidnappers on sighting the security team coordinated by the Police fired at the security team which resulted in a shootout.
The bandits were however overpowered and according to the Police, “escaped with various degrees of bullet injuries, leaving behind their victims”.
The rescue is part of efforts by the Command, in a sustained joint operation with other security agencies and vigilante groups and hunters from the various local communities, to combat violent crimes in the FCT, rescue victims and bring perpetrators to book.
The statement adds that the Commissioner of Police in FCT, CP Haruna Garba, has vowed that, “while effort is being sustained to prevent any further threats to 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, 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 stabilized in the hospital and would be reunited with their families.
The CP urged residents to be vigilant, and make a prompt rendition of complaints through the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883, while the Public Complaint Bureau (PCB) desk, could be reached on: 0902 222 2352
The FCT has recently been a synosure of kidnappers recently, with series of kidnappings being reported in Kwali, Kuje and Abaji Area Councils where bandits have successfully recently carried out their escapades and succeeded in taking away victims.
Since five years ago, the FCT communities have been invaded severally and successfully by bandits and kidnappers, without a permanent solution to the menace.
