From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Police Command has successfully rescued 13 kidnap victims in a swift operation, showcasing its commitment to combating criminal activities across the state.
The victims, who were abducted on December 21, 2024, by armed assailants while traveling to a wedding in Kogi State, were freed through a coordinated effort involving the police and the Oke-Ero Local Government Security Initiative.
In a statement released in Ilorin, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, revealed that the rescue mission was launched following a distress call.
“Acting on credible intelligence and with support from local informants, security operatives stormed the kidnappers’ hideout in the Idofin-Igbana area,” the statement read.
During the operation, the kidnappers, disguised in military uniforms, engaged the rescue team in a gun battle but were overpowered. The six armed men fled the scene with injuries, abandoning their captives.
Among the 13 victims rescued were three females and ten males, including individuals from Odo-Owa in Oke-Ero Local Government Area, Ilorin, Ogbomoso, and a group of trailer drivers traveling to Kogi State.
Two of the victims sustained minor injuries and received medical care before being reunited with their families.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, commended the operatives for their resilience and thanked the local community for providing timely information.
He assured the public of the Command’s dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and properties in Kwara State.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency hotlines at 07032069501 or 08125275046.
This successful operation, reinforces the Kwara State Police Command’s determination to rid the state of criminals and protect its citizens.