SECURITY FORCES LAUNCH MAJOR OPERATION TO RESCUE NIGER ABDUCTEES

Security forces comprising the military, police and Department of State Services have moved into Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State to rescue hundreds of residents reportedly abducted by terrorists during attacks on communities in the area.

The operation follows the mass abduction that occurred on Friday, August 21, when armed men attacked several communities and reportedly took away a large number of residents, including women and children.

The affected communities include Gbeji, Kpenya, Giyan Gbasu and Dekera, where residents were reportedly attacked while some victims were abducted during prayers.

Following the incident, President Bola Tinubu directed the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, DSS and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to immediately launch a coordinated operation to rescue the victims and track down the perpetrators.

The security agencies have since intensified operations around the affected communities and surrounding areas, with personnel deployed to search for the abducted residents and gather intelligence on the movements of the attackers.

The mass abduction has generated widespread concern among residents, community leaders and political stakeholders, who have called for urgent action to secure the release of those still being held.

The incident has also raised fresh concerns about the growing insecurity in parts of Niger State, particularly communities located close to the border with Benin Republic. Residents in some affected areas have reportedly become increasingly fearful, with insecurity forcing some people to consider relocating to safer locations.

The exact number of people abducted remains subject to verification, as authorities continue to reconcile reports from the affected communities. However, reports indicate that the number could run into hundreds.

The security operation is expected to continue until the abducted residents are located and rescued, while efforts are also being made to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attacks.

Authorities have urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist the ongoing operation, while cautioning against actions that could compromise the safety of the victims or security personnel.

For families of the abducted residents, the operation has raised hopes that their loved ones may soon return home safely after days of uncertainty.

Security agencies have assured Nigerians that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and restore security to the affected communities in Niger State.