The Department of State Security has rescued 25 children abducted in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State and handed them over to the state government after three weeks in captivity.
The children were kidnapped on December 21 while travelling for Eid el Maulud celebrations. Their abductors reportedly disguised themselves as vigilantes during the operation.
Briefing journalists on Saturday at the Little Rayfield Government House, the Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, confirmed the successful rescue and expressed gratitude to the DSS for the operation.
Jatau said the children had undergone medical examinations and were found to be in good health, apart from minor injuries sustained during the ordeal.
“Let me clarify that they were actually 28 in the vehicle when they were travelling, but three of them were not kidnapped because they escaped during the incident,” he said.
He explained that the rescued victims comprised six females and 19 males, adding that their release followed sustained efforts by the state government and security agencies.
“We want to thank the DSS for a wonderful job. They have been doing remarkable things across the state. Government will continue to support them. The local government should watch over the children for a few weeks to ensure they are okay,” Jatau stated.
He added that the Plateau State Government appreciated the commitment of security agencies and prayed for continued cooperation to strengthen peace and security across the state.
