ABUJA, Nigeria — Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu has explained why the rescue operation for victims abducted in Oyo State lasted 56 days, saying security agencies deliberately adopted a cautious strategy to ensure the safe return of the captives without causing unnecessary casualties.
Speaking on the operation, the IGP said the police and other security agencies prioritised the lives of the abducted victims throughout the mission. He explained that officers avoided rushed actions that could have endangered the captives or resulted in collateral damage during efforts to secure their freedom.
According to Disu, the rescue operation involved extensive intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordination among various security agencies. He noted that investigators carefully monitored the activities and movements of the kidnappers before launching the final operation that led to the victims’ rescue.
The police chief said security personnel had to exercise patience because the abductors frequently changed locations and adopted tactics aimed at evading law enforcement agencies. He added that acting prematurely could have jeopardised the safety of the victims and complicated the rescue mission.
Disu explained that intelligence-led policing remained the most effective approach in kidnapping cases, particularly when the lives of innocent people were at stake. He said the operation demonstrated the importance of collaboration between the police, other security agencies and local communities in tracking criminal groups.
The IGP commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism, discipline and commitment throughout the nearly two-month mission. He also appreciated members of the public who provided credible information that supported the investigation and eventual rescue of the abducted victims.
He urged Nigerians to continue cooperating with security agencies by sharing timely and reliable intelligence capable of preventing crimes and assisting ongoing investigations. According to him, public support remains essential in the fight against kidnapping, banditry and other forms of violent crime across the country.
Disu reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and other criminal networks would continue nationwide. He assured citizens that the force would strengthen intelligence gathering, improve operational capacity and work closely with sister security agencies to tackle insecurity.
Security analysts say the operation highlights the delicate balance security agencies must maintain between acting swiftly against criminals and ensuring the safety of hostages. They note that while prolonged rescue efforts may attract public concern, carefully planned operations often improve the chances of recovering victims alive.
The Inspector-General maintained that the successful rescue reinforces the police’s resolve to pursue criminal elements wherever they operate and assured Nigerians that sustained efforts would continue to enhance security and protect communities across the country.
