From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed an abduction at Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and has launched a rescue operation to locate and free the victims.
In a statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the police received the report and convened a security meeting with the Governor of Kaduna State, who summoned the Kaduna State Security Council. The meeting was held at the Government House, Kaduna, where some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report, describing it as false.
The police initially exercised caution, with the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, stating that the incident had not been confirmed, in an effort to prevent unnecessary panic while the facts were being verified. However, subsequent verification from operational units and intelligence sources has confirmed that the incident did occur.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the full deployment of critical operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities to locate and rescue the victims. The police have also intensified patrols, search-and-rescue operations, and proactive measures to protect lives and property.
The police have appealed to the public and the media for patience and cooperation, urging them to rely on official police communications for verified information and avoid speculation or sensational reporting that could jeopardize ongoing operations or heighten public anxiety.
The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to the safety of all citizens and will continue to provide updates as developments unfold.
