A high-stakes rescue operation is underway in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as security forces intensify their efforts to locate and free a kidnapped Defence Headquarters official, Lt. Cynthia Akor, and two other individuals
The victims were seized by armed men from their residence in the Mpape area late Friday night, triggering a swift response from law enforcement and military personnel.
The gravity of the situation escalated when the kidnappers established contact with the victims’ families, demanding a substantial ransom of N100 million for their safe release. The audacious demand underscores the severity of the crime and the determination of the perpetrators, adding urgency to the ongoing rescue efforts.
The kidnapped victims include Lt. Cynthia Akor, a Nigerian Navy officer assigned to the Defence Headquarters FCT, highlighting the targeted nature of the abduction. The involvement of a high-ranking military official has heightened concerns and prompted a coordinated response from multiple security agencies.
Despite attempts to obtain official comments from the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, and the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, they remained unresponsive at the time of reporting. This silence has fueled speculation and increased anxiety among the public in FCT.
The spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Police (FCT) Command, Josephine Adeh, initially acknowledged the inquiry and promised to provide further details after confirming the incident. However, she had not yet provided an update at the time of this report, leaving the public awaiting official confirmation and information.
Nevertheless, a security source, speaking anonymously, revealed that a joint operation involving police officers and military troops has been launched to rescue the kidnapped victims. This collaborative effort signifies the seriousness with which security agencies are treating the situation.
The ongoing operation reflects the commitment of security forces to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped individuals. The coordinated efforts aim to leverage the combined resources and expertise of the police and military to maximize the chances of a successful rescue.
The incident has raised concerns about security vulnerabilities in the Mpape area and the broader FCT, prompting calls for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to prevent future kidnappings. The demand for a large ransom indicates the organized nature of the crime and the potential involvement of well-established criminal networks.
As the manhunt continues, the families of the kidnapped victims and the wider community remain hopeful for a positive outcome. The coordinated efforts of the security operatives provide a glimmer of hope amidst the tense and uncertain situation.
