Rear Admiral John Okeke, Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed to the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe, says its troops on Monday have rescued the students abducted along the east-west road in the Ughelli area of Delta state.
The students were abducted after their Sienna vehicle was attacked on Friday evening as they returned from Calabar, the Cross River capital.
Speaking in an interview with NAN on Monday night, Okeke said nine victims, including a corps member and naval rating, were rescued by the troops.
The commander said ten suspected kidnappers were arrested during the rescue operation.
“In continuation to ensure safety of lives and property in the Niger Delta Region, the gallant troops of the Joint Task Force South South Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), comprising troops of Quick Response Force (QRF) of Headquarters OPDS, Land, Maritime, and Air Components, on Monday, April 1, 2024, rescued nine kidnap victims,” Okeke said.
“The freed victims were kidnapped on 29 March 2024, along Patani-Ughelli road in Delta state.
“During the rescue operation, ten suspects were arrested. Among the rescued victims are a naval rating and an NYSC member.”
The JTF Commander subsequently warned criminal elements within the Niger Delta region to desist from their nefarious activities as there will be no safe haven for them in the region as troops will not leave any stone unturned in ensuring a conducive environment for the safety of lives and properties.
Okeke also commended the troops for their gallantry and efforts in the rescue operation.
He urged the general public to always provide useful information to security agencies on criminal activities within their communities.
(NAN)
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