Police Rescue 17 Abducted Pupils in Kogi, Hunt Intensifies for Remaining Victims

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Kogi State have rescued 17 pupils abducted from an Islamic school in Lokoja, as efforts intensify to secure the release of the remaining victims.

The pupils were kidnapped late Saturday night when gunmen invaded Daarul Kitab School, an Islamic institution with an orphanage located in the Zariagi area along NNPC Road, Kabba Junction in Lokoja.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Saliu Afusat, a total of 26 persons—24 pupils and two wives of the school’s proprietor—were initially taken by the attackers.

She said the Divisional Police Officer of ‘B’ Division, Lokoja, swiftly mobilised a joint security team, leading to the rescue of 17 victims.

“Rescue operations are ongoing by joint security operatives, comprising the police, military, and other agencies, to secure the safe release of the remaining nine victims,” Afusat stated.

The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, has visited the scene and ordered the deployment of tactical teams for bush combing, surveillance, and intelligence gathering.

The police command assured residents that efforts are being intensified to rescue those still in captivity and bring the perpetrators to justice, urging the public to provide useful information.

Meanwhile, the Kogi State Government condemned the attack, describing it as unfortunate.

The Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, noted that security operatives responded promptly, leading to the rescue of several victims.

He, however, expressed concern that the school was allegedly operating in a remote area without proper registration or notification to relevant authorities, warning that such facilities pose significant security risks.

Fanwo urged operators of schools and orphanages to comply with regulatory requirements, especially amid rising insecurity.

Kidnapping for ransom remains a persistent threat in parts of Nigeria, with schools and rural communities increasingly targeted due to their vulnerability.