30 kidnappers killed, 50 Hostages Freed In Kwara Security Operation
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that a major security operation in Babasango, a community in the Babanla area of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, has led to the death of about 30 suspected kidnappers and the rescue of more than 50 hostages.
The intense gun battle between security operatives and the criminals occurred at the kidnappers’ hideouts between Sunday night and Monday morning.
Confirming the development late Tuesday, Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, described the operation as a “modest success,” despite an ambush attempt by the armed criminals.
“Several of the criminals were eliminated, and dozens of their victims have escaped captivity. Many of them are now safe in Babanla and Shagbe,” Ajakaye stated.
He also disclosed that a forest guard earlier feared dead during the firefight had returned home safely.
According to Ajakaye, many of the hostages managed to escape after their captors fled in the face of the advancing security forces.
“Many of the kidnappers were killed during the operation, while others fled. While more work remains, the success of Sunday night’s raid is a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements,” he added.
Community leaders in Babanla have reportedly confirmed the arrival of several escaped victims from Babasango following the operation.
Ajakaye reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued security crackdowns, vowing that the criminals would be relentlessly pursued until they are completely driven out of the state.
