The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Sunday, said operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have successfully rescued 20 medical students who were recently kidnapped in Benue State.

The IGP also disclosed that seven other previously kidnapped Nigerians were equally rescued during the sting operation.

Egbetokun, who handed over the students to the vice chancellors of the University of Jos and the University of Maidugri, during a press briefing at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, revealed that the “kidnap kingpin was killed during exchange of gunfire with the operatives.”

He said, “Today, it is with a deep sense of relief that I brief you on a successful operation conducted by the Nigeria Police Force, which resulted in the rescue of 27 innocent citizens on 22nd August, 2024, who had been abducted by a dangerous criminal gang in Benue State.

“Among those rescued were 20 medical students of the University of Jos Teaching Hospital comprising 16 males and 4 females, who were cruelly abducted while in transit to a conference in Enugu on 15th August, 2024, five other passengers and two other victims who had also fallen victim to these heinous criminals were also freed.

“The successful rescue of these 27 individuals was achieved without the payment of any ransom. This success was possible through the activation of security intelligence network, synergy with other security agencies, community partnership and the deployment of our highly skilled and tactical officers, whose dedication, bravery, and precision in executing their duties are truly commendable.”

The IGP stressed that during the operation, officers engaged the kidnappers in a well-coordinated tactical offensive which resulted in the death of the kingpin of this notorious gang.

According to the IGP, “He was neutralised during exchange of fire with our operatives and his weapon recovered, while two other members of the gang were arrested.”