15 NYSC members were kidnapped on Abuja–Bayelsa journey • N20m ransom demand                   • Operation continues as troops hunt remaining victims, abductors

By Frontline Reporters

There was a major breakthrough in the battle against Nigeria’s escalating kidnapping menace on Monday as security forces rescued 10 National Youth Service Corps members abducted by suspected kidnappers and held captive inside the Egume Forest in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The dramatic rescue operation, disclosed by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has raised hopes for the safe recovery of the remaining victims still believed to be in the hands of the abductors.

The rescued corps members were among 15 NYSC members kidnapped last week while travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State.

According to the DHQ, the victims were recovered during a joint security operation launched to track down the kidnappers and penetrate the forest hideout where the corps members were being held.

The abduction had sparked fresh concerns over the safety of corps members travelling across the country, with reports that the kidnappers demanded ₦20 million ransom from the families of some of the victims.

FOREST OPERATION CONTINUES

Although the rescue of the 10 corps members represents a significant breakthrough, the security operation is far from over.

The Defence Headquarters said security forces are still combing the area in an effort to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators behind the abduction.

The operation is also expected to focus on dismantling the criminal network responsible for the kidnapping and preventing the forest from being used as a safe haven by armed gangs.

DHQ TO NIGERIANS: STAY ALERT

The military authorities appealed to members of the public to remain calm but vigilant, urging citizens to promptly report suspicious movements and any information that could assist security agencies in locating the remaining victims.

The DHQ said the security forces remained committed to rescuing those still in captivity and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The latest development comes amid heightened security operations across several parts of the country as military and other security agencies intensify efforts to dismantle kidnapping and criminal networks.

For the rescued corps members, however, the nightmare of being held captive in the forest has ended.

But the race continues — 10 have been freed, the remaining victims are still out there, and security forces are now hunting the kidnappers.

ADVERTISEMENTS