Nigerian Police Successfully Rescue 20 Medical Students Abducted in Benue State

The Nigerian Police Force has confirmed the successful rescue of 20 medical students who were abducted in Benue State on August 16, 2024. The students, hailing from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos, were en route to an annual convention for the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students in Enugu when they were kidnapped by gunmen.

Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, announced that the rescue operation, conducted on Friday, August 23, 2024, in Ntunkon Forest, was carried out without the payment of any ransom. Despite initial reports suggesting that the kidnappers demanded ₦50 million for their release, Adejobi emphasized that the students were rescued “tactically and professionally” through coordinated efforts involving various security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the military, with support from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and local communities.

The operation was part of a broader strategy implemented by the Inspector General of Police, who had deployed a tactical squad and relocated the state police commissioner to Otukpo LGA to ensure the safe rescue of the abductees. This operation reflects the resilience and dedication of Nigeria’s security forces and local stakeholders in combating such incidents.