The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says it will work relentlessly with security agencies to ensure the rescue of those kidnapped in the March 28 bandit attack on the Abuja-Kaduna-bound passenger train.

NRC’s managing director Fidet Okhiria disclosed this in a statement on Monday. He said the corporation was working with security agencies to rescue and reunite abducted passengers with their families.

“We are committed to the rescue of our passengers and staff who were on board the ill-fated Ak9 train service. We shall continue to collaborate with security agencies to ensure that all persons being held are rescued unhurt and reunited with their families,” explained Mr Okhiria. “Our heart goes out to those who lost loved ones and those injured in the attack who are now recuperating.”

The railway chief also stated that 191 out of the 362 validated passengers on board the train had been confirmed safe.

“Five others were confirmed safe on April 4. About 46 phone numbers on the manifest are still either switched off or not reachable. Thirty-three phone numbers are ringing but not answered, and 62 phone numbers are responding to be non-existent,” he said.

Mr Okhiria added that 22 persons were reported missing by their relatives, while eight persons were confirmed dead. He stated that there were 20 crew members onboard the train.

“Seven NRC staff, five are safe and two missing. Ten janitors, six are safe, three missing and one dead. Also, one caterer is safe while two are missing,” he said.

Mr Okhiria also mentioned that an additional coach, SP 00020, was re-railed and moved safely to Rigasa station.

“This is bringing the total number of recovered coaches that have been safely moved to NRC stations to eight. Intensive track repair works have been ongoing to enable the recovery of the remaining coaches and locomotives,” he stated.

Mr Okhiria promised to regularly give updates on the incident to avoid speculations and misinformation.

(NAN)