By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Police Command in Anambra State has rescued six of the journalists kidnapped along Isseke-Orlu road, Ihiala area of Anambra on their way from Lagos to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.

The journalists were on their way to cover the nation?s cup qualifier match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Mediterranean Knights of Libya on Friday, October 11, 2024 when they were kidnapped.

Speaking on their rescue, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the journalists were rescued by a joint security team on Thursday.

Ikenga said operations were still ongoing for ?the possible rescue of the seventh crew member?.

According to him, "A joint security force have successfully rescued six members of the media crew who were abducted while traveling from Lagos to Uyo along Isseke-Orlu Road in Ihiala."

Meanwhile, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has confirmed the release of the abducted journalists.

The SWAN President, Benjamin Isaiah, in a statement commended the security agencies for their swift response and successful rescue of the media practitioners mainly Camera men.

The statement signed by the Secretary, Ikenna Okonkwo said the journalists were already on their way to either reunite with families or move on with other official duties.

The statement reads in part: ?We want to confirm that some of the sports journalists who were earlier kidnapped on their way to cover the Nations qualifier between Super Eagles and Mediterranean Knights of Libya in Uyo, have been released.

?SWAN commends the security operatives, particularly the Nigerian Army and Police for their prompt action which ensured that up to six of the held sports journalists regained their freedom with efforts to get the remaining person freed.

?We urge our members to remain calm and without fear in the discharge of their professional duties while maintaining regular communication with the various SWAN State Chapters? Leadership for any formal purposes.

?Be assured that the National Leadership of SWAN is committed to your welfare and overall well-being with utmost regards as always.?

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