Police And Military Intensify Forest Operations To Rescue Students Kidnapped From St. Mary Secondary School

 

Authorities in Niger State have launched an extensive search operation following the abduction of students from St. Mary Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area. Early reports indicate that armed men stormed the school around 2:00 am, taking an undetermined number of students from the school hostel. Local security agencies, including tactical police units and military personnel, have been deployed to locate and rescue the missing students.

The Niger State Police Command, through its spokesperson SP W. A Abiodun, confirmed the incident, describing the situation as urgent and the response as immediate. According to the statement, police and military forces are actively combing surrounding forests in a coordinated effort to track the abductors and ensure the safe recovery of the students.

Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, reassured the public of the command’s dedication to rescuing the students unharmed. He emphasized the importance of calm and cooperation from local residents, highlighting that community support is vital for the ongoing operations. Authorities have urged anyone with information on the whereabouts of the abducted students or suspicious activities near the school to report immediately to law enforcement agencies.

Eyewitnesses recount that the assailants moved swiftly, targeting the school while it was still dark. Students and staff were reportedly caught off guard, with some attempting to hide while others were taken forcibly. The exact number of students and staff abducted remains unclear, but the authorities are working tirelessly to establish precise figures.

Security forces are leaving no stone unturned as they search dense forested areas around Papiri and neighboring communities. Tactical units are using a combination of foot patrols, vehicles, and surveillance measures to track the perpetrators. Military helicopters are also reportedly assisting in monitoring difficult terrain to aid the rescue mission.

Parents and community members have expressed deep concern, pleading for the swift and safe return of the children. Civil society organizations and local leaders are calling for immediate action and increased security around schools in vulnerable areas to prevent future incidents.

Authorities maintain that the operation is ongoing, with intelligence teams analyzing leads and coordinating with neighboring states to prevent the abductors from fleeing. Law enforcement officials reiterate their commitment to ensuring that all abducted students return home safely, while maintaining vigilance against further attacks.

The incident has once again drawn attention to security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in areas where schools have become targets of criminal and terrorist activities. Government and security agencies continue to stress the need for public cooperation and awareness to effectively combat such threats.