Niger state Commissioner for Internal Security and Humanitarian Affairs, Emmanuel Umar says security operatives in the state, rescued 22 not nine kidnap victims on Friday.
A statement he signed and mailed to ASHENEWS on Saturday, said the security operatives mobilized and engaged terrorist after they received distress call.
According to Umar, “the terrorists invaded Kuchi community and kidnapped men, women and infants and were taken to their hideouts” adding that the operatives rescued all 22 victims after fierce gun fight.
Read the statement below:
“On Friday, 22nd July, 2022, Security Forces in Niger State, acting upon a distress call that armed bandits/terrorists invaded Kuchi, a community in Munya local government area and kidnapped locals. Security Forces mobilized to the scene, engaged the terrorist and rescued all 22 victims after a fierce gun fight.
“The terrorist, in the early hours of Friday, 22nd July, invaded Kuchi community and kidnapped men, women and infants and were taken to their hideouts.
“Consequently, security forces mobilized for a manhunt and engaged the terrorists within the river line of Dangunu axis. During the encounter, the terrorists scampered into the overflowed river and forest belt, abandoning their victims and some of their items and equipment, which were recovered.
“All the victims have been debriefed and reunited with their families. However, one of the victim is currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds in a government medical facility,” the statement reads.
The state government appreciated the continuing efforts of the heads of security agencies and community leaders towards mitigating the spate of insecurity in some parts of the state.
It also called on all citizens, especially health services providers within these communities to be vigilant and immediately report to relevant authorities any strange or suspicious person loitering in their communities in a manner fatigued and or with gunshot wounds.
The state governor, Abubakar Sani Bello acknowledged the courage, commitment and dexterity of all the security forces towards the fight against terrorism/banditry and other forms of violent crimes in Niger State.
He further directed that they should remain resolute in their determination to dislodge and root out bandits/terrorist and their activities in Niger state.
