From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A joint security operation in Kwara State, has led to the rescue of seven kidnapped victims after a fierce gun battle with bandits in a forest near Owa-Onire.
The rescue, which took place recently was carried out by operatives from the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the police, and local vigilantes.
The security team stormed the kidnappers’ hideout after days of coordinated search efforts.
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According to the police, the armed criminals engaged the operatives in a shoot-out but were overpowered, forcing them to flee deeper into the forest and abandon their captives.
Those rescued include 23-year-old Adam Khadijat and 24-year-old Mamud Miriam, both from Oko; 17-year-old Mumini Ahmed, also from Oko; 44-year-old Hamadu Haruna from Ajase-Ipo; Afusatu Alhaji Ladan and her 9-month-old son Usman from Omu-Aran; and 16-year-old Abibat Umaru from Oke-Ode.
One vigilante sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and is receiving treatment. Security personnel also recovered three motorcycles and nine empty AK-47 magazines from the hideout.
Speaking on the development, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, praised the resilience and courage of the security team, assuring residents that the command will not relent in the fight against kidnapping and banditry.
“We are committed to sustaining aggressive onslaughts on criminal hideouts until these perpetrators are brought to justice. We call on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information,” he said.
The police confirmed that the rescued victims have since been debriefed and reunited with their families.
