In a daring joint operation, security forces on Wednesday rescued seven kidnap victims from a forest near Owa-Onire in Kwara South Senatorial District, following a heavy gun battle with armed bandits.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday by its spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, in Ilorin.
According to Ejire, the operation was led by a security operative attached to the Office of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with police officers and local vigilantes. The mission was part of sustained search-and-rescue efforts launched in response to recent waves of kidnapping in the state.
During the operation, the armed kidnappers resisted with heavy gunfire, leading to a fierce shootout. The criminals, however, were overpowered and forced to abandon their hostages before fleeing deeper into the forest.
All seven abducted victims were safely rescued, though one vigilante sustained a gunshot injury. The injured personnel is currently receiving medical treatment and responding positively.
The rescued victims were identified as:
- Adam Khadijat of Oko
- Mamud Miriam of Oko
- Mumini Ahmed of Oko
- Hamadu Haruna of Ajase-Ipo
- Afusat Alhaji Ladan and her 9-month-old son, Usman Ladan, from Omu-Aran
- Abibat Umaru of Oke-Ode
Items recovered from the kidnappers’ hideout included three motorcycles and nine empty AK-47 magazines.
The victims have since been debriefed and reunited with their families.
Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, praised the gallantry and resilience displayed by the security team, assuring residents that the Command, in synergy with other agencies, will continue aggressive raids on criminal hideouts until perpetrators of kidnapping and banditry are brought to justice.
The Command also urged residents to remain vigilant, calm, and supportive by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
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