Security operatives kill 5 kidnappers, rescue 4 victims
Story by Jane AISO
In a successful operation, security forces in Taraba State have neutralized five kidnappers and rescued four abducted individuals. The operation took place in Komi village, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, after the kidnappers struck the village the previous night, abducting four locals.
The Commissioner of Police in Taraba State, David Iloyonomon, disclosed the details of the operation in a telephone interview with Channels Television. He explained that the swift intervention of local vigilantes, who alerted the police, led to the joint operation that resulted in the rescue mission.
According to Iloyonomon, the kidnappers initially ambushed the security team as they pursued them, but the bandits were overwhelmed by superior firepower and forced to flee. During the chase, the kidnappers abandoned two of the captives and ventured deeper into the forest.
The police, however, revised their strategy, which eventually led to the rescue of the remaining two victims. “At the end of the encounter, five of the kidnappers were killed, and all four victims were safely rescued,” Iloyonomon stated.
READ ALSO : Troops in Kaduna rescue 13 kidnap victims from bandits’ hideout
The commissioner added that two of the rescued victims had sustained injuries after being beaten by the kidnappers and are currently receiving treatment at a health facility in Iware village. They are reportedly in stable condition.
One of the slain kidnappers was identified as a repeat offender, who had previously been arrested, charged to court, and later released. “Luck ran out on him this time,” said Iloyonomon.
The commissioner emphasized the police force’s commitment to eradicating kidnapping and other crimes in Taraba, citing improved strategies and intelligence sharing between security agencies. “We have changed our strategies to ensure that kidnappers no longer have free rein in Taraba. Our reliance on intelligence from various security agencies has been pivotal in combating crime.”
As part of ongoing efforts to bolster security, Iloyonomon revealed that he has been conducting working visits to local government areas and police divisions to enhance collaboration between the police, professional hunters, and local vigilante groups.
He praised the support of these local groups, stating, “The vigilante and professional hunters are integral parts of our security apparatus, and their collaboration has been key to our success.”
Written by Sekinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va74ZvU2v1IqKByXoX3d
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
