Police Confirm Release Of 20 Medical Students Kidnapped In Benue

The Nigeria police has confirmed the release of 20 medical students kidnapped in Benue State last week.

Police Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who made this known, said they were released on Friday, 23 August, one week after their abduction.

In a post via his official X handle on Saturday morning, Adejobi debunked claims made earlier on X that ransom was paid to the kidnappers to secure the release of the students.

He said no money was paid for their release, asserting that they were tactically rescued by security operatives.

The Force PRO commended the efforts of security agencies and local community members that led to the release of the students.

His statement reads: “Release of 20 medical students and others. We confirm the release of our brothers and sisters and some other Nigerians who have been in captivity on Friday 23rd August 2024, in Ntunkon forest, Benue State.

“Without any ransom paid. Contrary to some tweets and unconfirmed stories that some money was paid, no kobo was paid to release them. They were actually rescued tactically and professionally.

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“We commend the security agencies, locals, and ONSA for their commitment and resilience. Thanks to you all.

However, Adejobi did not state whether any of the hoodlums involved in abducting the medical students was arrested.

Prime Business Africa reports that 20 medical students from University of Maiduguri and Jos were abducted last week along Otukpor axis in Benue State.

They were said to be going for an annual convention organised by the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) in Enugu, when the incident happened.

The incident sparkled outrage across the country, with many calling for a swift action by security agencies to secure their release.