The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 17 pupils following a late-night attack by gunmen on an Islamic school and orphanage in the Zariagi area of Lokoja. In a statement on Monday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Saliu Afusat, said the incident occurred around 11:45 p.m. on……
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 17 pupils following a late-night attack by gunmen on an Islamic school and orphanage in the Zariagi area of Lokoja.
In a statement on Monday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Saliu Afusat, said the incident occurred around 11:45 p.m. on Sunday at Daarul Kitab School, where the attackers abducted 26 persons, including 24 pupils and two wives of the proprietor.
Afusat said security operatives responded swiftly after receiving a distress call.
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“The Divisional Police Officer in charge of ‘B’ Division Lokoja swiftly mobilized a joint team of security operatives and proceeded to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment,” the statement read.
According to her, coordinated rescue efforts have already yielded results.
“The operatives immediately mapped out strategies and commenced coordinated rescue operations. Through these efforts, seventeen (17) of the abducted pupils/students have been successfully rescued,” the statement added.
She noted that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims.
“Rescue operations are ongoing by joint security operatives comprising the Police, Military, and other security agencies, with concerted efforts being intensified to secure the safe release of the remaining nine (9) victims, consisting of seven (7) pupils and the two (2) wives of the proprietor.”
Afusat further disclosed that the State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, had visited the scene and ordered the deployment of tactical teams to enhance search and rescue operations.
“The Command assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims. Members of the public are urged to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid the ongoing operation,” the statement said.
The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through its emergency lines: 0703 832 9084 and 0815 219 5982.