As the government continues to review the issue of the kidnapped railway passengers and makes all efforts to trace and bring back the 51 or more still being held in custody,
President Muhammadu Buhari has directed increased efforts toward rescuing kidnapped railway passengers still in custody and bringing the case to a close.
A statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on Tuesday said upon the President’s approval, rescue efforts are taking a two-lane approach, the kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure the captives’ safe release.
Shehu said the kidnappers made a demand for the release of their own children and upon the settlement of that issue, they let go eleven of the victims, even though more were expected.
He said the Government is not leaving any stone unturned in efforts to bring all hostages back home, adding that the Defence, Security and Intelligence Agencies have given assurances to intensify operational engagements geared towards restoring peace in all parts of the country.
He noted that the federal government is also mindful of the efforts of some patriotic and influential persons and institutions that are helping in securing the safe release of the hostages.
President Buhari welcomed the return of the recently released passengers back to their families and loved ones while expressing his solemn commitment to the families of those still in captivity, assuring that there will be no let-up until they are reunited with their families in the shortest time possible.
”The President’s clear directive on the issue is that the hostages must be brought home alive. The country’s military and security agencies are aware of their duty to the nation and are determined to give effect to the President’s charge with increased urgency.
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