The Nigeria Police Force has stepped up efforts to rescue worshippers abducted from a mosque in Dekara community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, with Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu deploying a senior police officer and specialised units to the state.
Disu directed Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 7, Victor Olaya, to coordinate efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims. The deployment also includes the Counter Terrorism Unit, tactical teams, Police Air Wing and other specialised formations.
Niger State Commissioner of Police Adamu Elleman, represented by the command spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, said the police operation would be conducted alongside other security agencies and with support from the state government.
The exact number of people abducted remains unclear. Niger State Commissioner for Information Obed Nuhu said the government had not received any communication from the attackers and was still working with local residents and security personnel to establish the number of victims.
Nuhu said the attacks occurred at three locations and were suspected to have been carried out by Lakurawa and Boko Haram elements. He stressed that the government was avoiding speculation while security agencies continued efforts to gather reliable information.
The police are also working to identify the terrorists responsible for the abduction of the Guwa monarch, while clearance operations are being intensified in the affected areas. Elleman said the difficult terrain had made cooperation with residents and community members essential to the ongoing operation.
Governor Umaru Bago has directed relevant authorities to work with security agencies to secure the release of the abducted worshippers and restore normalcy in the affected communities.
The state government said humanitarian assistance would be provided once security forces clear the affected areas. Commissioner for Homeland Security Maurice Magaji said officials would assess the needs of the communities and provide support after security agencies establish control of the locations.
