Nigeria Kidnaps 20 Medical Students, Authorities Launch Investigation

Background

Police in Nigeria are searching for 20 medical students who were kidnapped by gunmen on Thursday.

Abduction Details

The students were on their way to a medical convention when their motorcade was intercepted in central Benue State. The Benue State police command has launched an investigation into the abduction and deployed tactical teams on a rescue mission. However, the teams have not reported any success.

Demands and Response

The abductors, using the students’ phones, issued a demand of about $31,400 to release the entire group. The Nigerian Medical Students Association has been urging authorities to secure the release of the students unharmed. The association’s national president, Moses Onwubuya, said students are threatening to protest if their colleagues are not released soon.

Investigation and Rescue Efforts

The Benue State police public relations officer, Anene Sewuese Catherine, spoke to VOA via phone, saying that the team has moved but has not heard from them. She added that the investigation is classified and that there is no update for now.

Condemnation and Concerns

The abduction has sparked widespread condemnation over insecurity in Africa’s most populous nation, where authorities have struggled for several years to control violence from armed gangs locally referred to as “bandits.” The national police have ordered the deployment of helicopters, drones, and specialized tactical teams to aid in the search for the medical students.

Context and Statistics

According to the Center for Democracy and Development — West Africa, Nigeria recorded more than 4,000 abductions in 2023, accounting for 58 percent of the total cases in West Africa and the highest in five years. Security analysts say a severe economic crisis in Nigeria is pushing more people toward crime and kidnapping for ransom.

Conclusion

The kidnapping of the 20 medical students is a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria. The authorities have pledged to address economic problems along with security challenges, but the families of the victims are hoping for a safe return of their loved ones.

FAQs

* Who were kidnapped?
+ 20 medical students from universities of Jos and Maiduguri, along with a medical doctor traveling with them.
* Where were they kidnapped?
+ On their way to a medical convention in eastern Enugu State.
* What is the demand of the abductors?
+ About $31,400 to release the entire group.
* What is the response of the authorities?
+ The Benue State police command has launched an investigation and deployed tactical teams on a rescue mission.