The inspector general of police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, said the police had killed the prime suspect in the abduction of 20 students in Gboko, Benue State.
The students were kidnapped on August 15 while travelling through Benue to Enugu for the Catholic Medical Students Conference.
Twelve of them were from the University of Jos while eight were from the University of Maiduguri.
Addressing the press at the force headquarters in Abuja yesterday, Egbetokun also said two members of the gang were arrested during the rescue operation.
He added that the suspects were helping the police with credible information to dismantle the gang.
“These individuals are currently in our custody where they are providing valuable information that will help in dismantling their criminal network and prevent future occurrences of such abductions,” he said.
Egbetokun further disclosed that seven other victims were freed during the rescue operation.
He said the successful rescue of the 27 abductees was achieved without the payment of any ransom.
He said the operation was painstakingly difficult and complex, requiring not only deployment of massive resources, but also physical courage, meticulous planning and coordination.
“In this regard, I must extend my heartfelt appreciation to the office of the national security adviser whose support was instrumental in this operation.
“I must place on record the personal commitment of the NSA, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, to the success of the operation that led to the successful rescue of the victims.
“I also wish to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of other security agencies who partnered with us, as well as the local vigilantes who played a crucial role in ensuring the success of this mission. This success is a demonstration of what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal,” he said.
He explained that the rescue was made possible through the activation of security intelligence network, synergy with other security agencies, community partnership and the deployment of highly skilled tactical officers for the operation.
He further said during the operation, the officers engaged the kidnappers in a well-coordinated tactical offensive.
“I am pleased to inform you that the kingpin of this notorious gang was neutralised during exchange of fire with our operatives and his weapon recovered, while two other members of the gang were arrested.
“It is pertinent to state that rescue operations of this magnitude are painstakingly difficult and complex, requiring not only deployment of resources but also meticulous planning and coordination,” he added.
He assured Nigerians that the police would continue to employ every lawful means at their disposal to protect the lives and property of all.
Responding, the governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, who was represented by the commissioner for finance, Mr Michael Oglegba, promised to help the institutions reintegrate the students into their university communities.
He charged the medical students to give their best to their studies as a token of payment for the sacrifice made by the security agencies that rescued them against all odds.
Also speaking, the vice chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof Tanko Ishaya, said the university had made arrangements to house the rescued students to undergo post traumatic counselling before their reintegration into university community.
For his part, the vice chancellor of University of Maiduguri, Prof Aliyu Shugaba, said the university does not pray for a repeat of such traumatic experience again.
