Dakare Kidnapping: Niger Intensifies Rescue Operation »

The Niger State Government has said efforts are being intensified to rescue victims of the Dakare kidnapping, with the police deploying tactical teams, counter-terrorism units and air assets to support the operation.

The Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barr. Maurice Magaji, disclosed this while speaking with newsmen on the security situation in the state.

Magaji said the government was working closely with security agencies and providing the necessary support to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims.

He called for greater collaboration among stakeholders, urging the media to continue working with the government and security agencies in efforts to tackle banditry.

The commissioner also appealed to residents to provide security agencies with useful information about suspicious activities or movements in their communities.

According to him, security remains fundamental to development, as no government can achieve meaningful progress without a secure environment.

Magaji further disclosed that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, had established a security situation information room where updates on security challenges would be provided to journalists.

He said the platform would also serve as a feedback mechanism to improve coordination and security outcomes.

Also speaking, the Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the Inspector-General of Police had mobilised and deployed personnel, including tactical teams, counter-terrorism units and the Police Air Wing, to support the rescue operation alongside other security agencies.

Abiodun said the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7, was on the ground to coordinate the various operational assets of the police and the state government to intensify the rescue effort.

He said the exact number of people kidnapped had not yet been ascertained, adding that security agencies were working with community members to verify the total number of victims.

The police spokesman also acknowledged the support provided by the Niger State Government, particularly in logistics, towards ensuring the victims are rescued as soon as possible.

He confirmed that the rescue operation had already commenced.

Abiodun further disclosed that the police tactical team in Agwara recovered the remains of the District Head of Gallah in Agwara Local Government Area.

He said investigation was ongoing to determine those responsible for the killing.

Responding to questions on when the kidnapped victims would be rescued, the PPRO described rescue operations as delicate and technical, requiring caution, intelligence analysis and carefully planned strategies to ensure the victims are rescued unharmed.