By Chesa Chesa
President Muhammadu Buhari has directed increased efforts – kinetic and non-kinetic – to rescue the remaining 51 kidnapped Kaduna train passengers.
In security circles, kinetic effort is regarded as active combat operations; and the president’s directive is coming after weeks of back and forth negotiations with the terrorists who killed some passe gets and kidnapped several others in a daring attack.
Upon the President’s approval, the Government is continuing on the two-lane approach, kinetic and non-kinetic to secure the passengers’ safe release, said a presidency statement on Tuesday.
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, said the statement issued by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu.
“The setback notwithstanding, the Government is not leaving any stone unturned in the efforts to bring all of the hostages back.
“The Defence, Security and Intelligence Agencies have given assurances to intensify operational engagements geared towards securing the rescue of all hostages and restoring peace to all parts of the country. Government is also mindful of efforts of some patriotic and influential persons and institutions that are helping in securing the safe release of the hostages.
“President Buhari welcomes 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”, the statement said.
