TheCable

John Okeke, commander of the joint military force deployed to the Niger Delta, says troops 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, Okeke said nine victims, including a corps member and naval rating, were rescued by the troops.

The commander said 10 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, 10 suspects were arrested. Among the rescued victims are a naval rating and an NYSC member.”

The commander warned criminal elements in the Niger Delta region to desist from their activities, adding that the troops will provide the security needed in the region.

He urged residents to always provide useful information to security agencies on criminal activities within their communities.