Major General Anthony Magnawa Atolagbe (Rtd.), former Field Commander of the Joint Task Force under Operation Safe Haven, has urged Nigerians to understand the complexities of rescue operations, following the safe recovery of 24 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State. Speaking on ARISE News, he highlighted why kidnappers often evade capture even when victims are successfully rescued.
Atolagbe noted that public expectations sometimes overlook the tactical realities of such missions. “While citizens may anticipate arrests or neutralisation of criminals, the primary objective is always the safe retrieval of hostages,” he said. He explained that rescue operations differ from combat engagements and require strategies that prioritise victims’ safety above immediate confrontation.
Drawing on international examples, Atolagbe cited the 2002 Moscow theatre siege, where rescue attempts tragically resulted in civilian casualties, as a reminder of the delicate balance required in hostage situations. He stressed that kidnappers often position themselves among their victims, limiting the options available to security forces.
“You want to get the children out safe and alive. When you meet these people inserted between the children, what do you do?” he asked. Atolagbe added that kidnappers may propose, “‘Allow us to pull out and then you can take your children.’ Would you insist on capturing them or leave them for a later date?” He emphasised that such critical decisions rest with commanders on the ground, who must weigh immediate risks and take initiative based on real-time circumstances.
Atolagbe concluded by reminding the public that rescue operations aim to save lives first, and that understanding the operational limitations of security forces helps contextualise outcomes that may initially appear controversial.
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