Olusegun ARIYO
The Military High Command has reiterated the determination of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) in collaboration with other security agencies in the country, to safely rescue and reintegrate all kidnapped victims of the Kurmin Wali Community in Kaduna State with their family members in due course.
It appealed for calm and understanding among Nigerians on the situation.
A statement issued by the Director of Media Operations (DMO), Major General Michael Onoja, explained that the AFN was duly aware of the apprehensions of displaced residents of the affected community regarding the ongoing operations to secure the release of the victims and assured that the safe rescue of the affected victims remained a paramount undertaking.
He explained that contrary to assertions of a diminished response, the AFN, in close collaboration with other security agencies, has been executing sustained, intelligence-driven operations within the vicinity and surrounding forested areas believed to harbour the perpetrators.
Onoja reiterated, “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain unwavering in their mandate to protect lives and property and are steadfastly committed to reuniting the kidnapped victims of Kurmin Wali with their families.”
He appealed for sustained public support, patience and cooperation as operations advance toward a successful resolution.
The statement affirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has duly acknowledged the apprehensions expressed by displaced residents of Kurmin Wali regarding the ongoing efforts to secure the release of their abducted family members and reassured the affected communities and the general public that the safe rescue and reintegration of all kidnapped victims remains a paramount undertaking.
He explained that, “Contrary to assertions of a diminished response, the AFN, in close collaboration with other security agencies, has been executing sustained, intelligence-driven operations within the vicinity and surrounding forested areas believed to harbour the perpetrators.”
He said that the operations encompass a strategic amalgamation of ground patrols, surveillance, intelligence gathering and targeted initiatives meticulously designed to locate the kidnappers and secure the hostages without jeopardising their safety.
Onoja said AFN recognises the distress and trepidation experienced by the affected families and underscores that operational restraint in certain instances is a deliberate strategy, guided by the imperative to safeguard the captives and avert unintended harm.
He explained that specific operational details must remain confidential for security considerations, and substantial efforts are underway to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the abductions.
He said that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain unwavering in their mandate to protect lives and property and are steadfastly committed to reuniting the kidnapped victims of Kurmin Wali with their families.
