Army Rescues 9 Kidnap Victims In Kogi

The Nigerian Army has rescued nine commuters abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Ajaokuta–Itobe Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Army, in a statement posted on its official X account on Tuesday, said the victims were rescued after troops deployed at Patrol Base Itobe responded to reports of an attack on commuters along the route.

According to the statement, troops arrived at the scene and found a Toyota Hiace bus and a Toyota Sienna abandoned by the roadside, while the passengers were missing.

The troops subsequently launched a pursuit operation, following the route taken by the fleeing kidnappers towards the outskirts of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area.

The Army said the troops engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush.

“During the ensuing firefight, the troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower, compelling them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot wounds,” the statement said.

The nine victims rescued comprised two older men, two older women, four other adult males and an infant.

The Army said the victims were immediately taken to safety before being handed over to the Nigeria Police, Itobe Area Command, for further action and reunification with their families.

It added that troops had continued to pursue the fleeing kidnappers, while coordinated search operations were ongoing to locate any other victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

The Army urged members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to enable a quick response to criminal activities.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to working with other security agencies to protect lives and property across the country.