Banditry: 333 Students still missing, as FG assures of prompt rescue

Augustine Okezie, Katsina

Governor Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State, on Sunday, declared that 333 Students of Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, Katsina state are still missing out of a student population of 839, following the invasion of the school by bandits last Friday night.

The Governor who made the disclosure while receiving a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister for Defense, General Bashir Magashi (Rtd.), on a sympathy visit, said the state government in collaboration with security agencies in the state is presently combing the area in search of the missing number of students.

He said ’’we are still searching to ascertain the exact number of kidnapped students as well as those missing, as a government, no group or association have contacted us or made any claims till date.’’

Earlier, the leader of the Federal Government delegation had told the Governor that the delegation were on a sympathy visit and assured that the armed forces have resolved to move fast and ensure speedy rescue of the students.

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He said ’’the conclusion by the armed forces is that these hoodlums should be declared terrorists. We have been adequately briefed by security agencies on the ground and we are rearing to go.

‘’Within the next few days, we will ensure the students are back without collateral damages.

‘’All hands are on deck to ensure that this rescue move is given the greatest priority it deserves.’’

The FG Delegation also includes Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police, DG State security Service, and that of National Intelligence Agency, NIA, and the National Security Adviser.

The Chief of Army Staff was not among the delegation but was represented.