Five abducted students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, in Ogun State, along with two other victims, have regained their freedom after spending about a week in captivity.

According to Channels Television, the seven victims were rescued in the early hours of Thursday through a coordinated operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Ogun State Security Network Agency, local vigilantes and hunters.

Speaking at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun confirmed that all seven victims were rescued alive. He disclosed that one of the students sustained a gunshot wound during the abduction but has been stabilised after receiving medical treatment.

Abiodun said the rescue operation received a major boost after the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s successor, Olatunji Disu, approved the deployment of a police helicopter for aerial surveillance, which helped security operatives locate and rescue the victims.

The governor said security agencies are continuing operations to arrest the remaining members of the kidnapping gang, stressing that Ogun State will remain hostile to criminal activities while ensuring the safety of residents and investors.

He added that recent joint security initiatives, including Operation Kò S’Áyé, have strengthened intelligence sharing and collaboration among security agencies in tackling criminal elements across the state.

Abiodun also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting security agencies through increased investment in operational capacity, improved intelligence coordination and enhanced welfare for security personnel.

Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, said no ransom was paid to secure the victims’ release. He revealed that two suspected kidnappers have been arrested and are assisting investigators, while efforts continue to track down other fleeing suspects.

The governor thanked traditional rulers, community leaders, the victims’ families and the management of Gateway ICT Polytechnic for their cooperation throughout the rescue operation.