Security operatives and a local vigilance group on Monday rescued three more victims of Thursday’s kidnap on the Lokoja-Abuja highway.

Among the three rescued victims, who are all indigenes of Imo, was a pregnant woman.

Dauda Aliyu, chairman of Kogi-Koto LGA, confirmed this in a statement.

“The commendable display of collaboration between security forces and local vigilantes in the state resulted in the successful rescue of the three victims, who were abducted on the Lokoja-Abuja highway last Thursday,” said the statement. 

According to the statement, the security operatives, including the police, army, SSS and NSCDC, had initially rescued 10 victims on Friday, as disclosed by retired Jerry Omodara, the security adviser to Governor Yahaya Bello.

It noted that “these recent developments mark a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities” in Kogi and the North-Central region, pointing out that it “is a signal that the administration of Governor Bello remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens whereby no victim will be left to suffer in the hands of criminal elements.”

The council boss further said security operatives were determined to root out criminals from every nook and cranny of the state to give room for peace, growth and development.

“Bello’s focus remains on sustaining the security achievements for the benefit and security of the people of Kogi. Unfortunately, one of the victims had a miscarriage in the course of the rescue,” Mr Aliyu said. 

(NAN)