Nine Children Rescued from Captivity in Benue State
Nine children, comprising six girls and three boys, who were abducted at gunpoint from a Roman Catholic church in Benue State, Nigeria, have been freed after spending one week in captivity. The children were seized on February 8 during a midnight prayer session at St. John's Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District, Ado Local Government Area. Their release was confirmed late Saturday, February 15, by local authorities.
Details of the Abduction and Release
The abduction occurred when gunmen stormed St. John's Catholic Church during a vigil. Following their capture, the kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom, initially set at N100 million, which was later reduced to N30 million. However, police officials have stated that the children were released 'unconditionally'. The rescue operation involved a collaborative effort between conventional security forces and local vigilante groups. Solomon Iorpev, an adviser to the Benue state governor, confirmed the children are now 'receiving care and support'.
Arrests Made in Connection with the Kidnapping
In a significant development, police have made arrests related to the abduction. On February 11, two suspects, identified as Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim, were apprehended. A subsequent raid on February 14, targeting Ashiru Ibrahim's hideout, led to the arrest of two additional suspects and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. Investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal network.
Broader Context of Insecurity in Nigeria
This incident is part of a troubling trend of mass kidnappings plaguing Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt region, where Benue State is located. This area has experienced ongoing clashes between farmers and herders, alongside activities by armed criminal groups. The widespread insecurity has drawn international attention. In response to the escalating crisis, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in November and initiated a recruitment drive to bolster the country's military and police forces.
4 Comments
Africa
Justice is being served with these arrests. Keep up the pressure on these criminals!
Coccinella
It's wonderful to hear these children are safe, and the arrests are a positive step. However, the fact that such an abduction occurred in a place of worship highlights the severe security challenges still facing the region.
Muchacho
It's a relief that these families are reunited, and the recovery of weapons is significant. But we must question how these criminal groups operate so freely, suggesting a deeper breakdown in law enforcement and intelligence gathering.
Muchacha
How can children be abducted from a church? This is an absolute security failure.