The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has advised that a coordinated police operation is underway in Haiyafuli Village, Mogulu, Western Province, following an initial report that two teenaged girls were kidnapped and taken hostage by armed criminals.
Commissioner Manning confirmed that one of the young girls was tragically murdered by the kidnappers, and that her remains have since been recovered by Police.
The coordinated police response remains ongoing, with Police focused on locating and rescuing the second victim, who is believed to be held at a separate location at gunpoint. One offender was already shot and killed during the police response.
“This is an ongoing operation in which Police are pursuing dangerous criminals who killed one young woman and continue to hold another girl at gunpoint,” Commissioner Manning confirmed.
“These are desperate individuals who have rejected the basic standards of their own communities and placed themselves outside decent society.
“Specialist tactical police are tracking them, and they should be under no illusion about the consequences if they resist or continue to threaten innocent life. One has already been killed, and others will face the same fate if they choose violence over surrender.
“Our main priority is the safety and recovery of the young girl they have taken, and Police will use every lawful and necessary means to bring her out alive.
“These criminals need to understand that their only path to survival is to immediately release this girl unharmed and surrender to Police. Specialist Police are on their trail, and where unlawful weapons are used or innocent lives are threatened, Police are authorised to respond decisively and without hesitation to save life.
“I thank the communities that have supported Police in our efforts to rescue these girls, and I ask you to maintain your vigilance and continue working with Police. The men responsible for these kidnappings and murder have brought shame on their families and our people, and they must receive no shelter, no support, and no silence from any community.
