By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 17 pupils amongst 26 abducted pupils of an Islamic school in Lokoja, Kogi State.
In a statement issued by the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the incident occurred at Daarul Kitab School, located in Zariagi along NNPC Road, Kabba Junction, Lokoja.
According to the statement, unknown gunmen invaded the school, which also serves as an orphanage, and abducted 26 persons, including 24 pupils and two wives of the proprietor, identified as Mallam Mohammed Tanko Tajudeen.
Following the attack, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of ‘B’ Division Lokoja mobilised a joint security team to the scene, where immediate rescue efforts were launched.
The Command disclosed that 17 of the abducted pupils have since been rescued, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining 9 victims, made up of 7 pupils and the 2 women.
The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi has also visited the scene and ordered the deployment of additional tactical teams to intensify bush combing, intelligence gathering and surveillance operations aimed at rescuing the remaining victims and apprehending the attackers.
The Police assured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safe return of those still in captivity urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid the rescue operation.
The Command further encouraged the public to report any suspicious movements through its emergency lines reiterating their commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.