Police rescue 13 kidnapped victims in Kwara
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The Kwara State Police Command has recorded another significant milestone in its fight against criminal activities, successfully rescuing thirteen kidnapped victims after receiving a distress call on December 21, 2024.
The victims, abducted by armed assailants while traveling to a wedding in Kogi State, were freed through a joint operation involving the Police and personnel from the Oke-Ero Local Government Security Initiative. Acting on credible intelligence and supported by local informants, security operatives swiftly moved to the suspects’ hideout in the Idofin-Igbana area.
This development was disclosed in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on Saturday in Ilorin.
On sighting the rescue team, the six kidnappers—some disguised in military uniforms—opened fire on the operatives. However, they were overpowered by the superior firepower of the security forces. The assailants fled with varying degrees of injuries, abandoning their captives in the process.
The rescued victims comprise three females and ten males from various locations, including Odo-Owa in Oke-Ero Local Government Area, Ilorin, Ogbomoso, and a group of trailer drivers traveling to Kogi State.
Two victims sustained minor gunshot injuries during the operation. They, along with the others, received immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital, were stabilized, and later reunited with their families.
The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Victor Olaiya, commended the operatives’ swift response and resilience. He also expressed appreciation to local communities for their timely provision of credible information.
The CP reiterated the Command’s commitment to combating criminality in all forms across the state.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency hotlines: 07032069501 or 08125275046. Together, these efforts will ensure safer communities.
