JUST-IN Police Rescue 17 Kidnapped Pupils Of Kogi Orphanage, Intensify Efforts To Free Remaining 9 Victims

The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 17 pupils following a late-night abduction at Daarul Kitab School, an Islamic primary school with an orphanage domiciled in it, located in Zariagi along NNPC Road, Kabba Junction in Lokoja, Kogi State.

The incident occurred on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at about 11:45 p.m., when unidentified gunmen stormed the premises and abducted a total of 26 persons.

The victims included 24 pupils and two wives of the school’s proprietor, Mallam Mohammed Tanko Tajudeen.

According to the Police, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of ‘B’ Division Lokoja swiftly mobilised a joint team of security personnel upon receiving the report.

He said the team immediately moved to the scene, conducted an on-the-spot assessment, and launched coordinated rescue operations.

According to the DPO, the efforts have so far led to the successful rescue of 17 of the abducted pupils.

“Security operations are ongoing, with a combined team of Police, military personnel, and other security agencies intensifying efforts to secure the release of the remaining nine victims, comprising seven pupils and the two women,” he said.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has visited the scene and directed the deployment of additional tactical teams to the area.

The DPO added that the CP has ordered bush combing, intelligence gathering, and surveillance operations aimed at rescuing the remaining victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The Command assured residents that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safe return of those still in captivity.

It also urged members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive by providing credible information that could aid ongoing operations.

Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines: 0703 832 9084 and 0815 219 5982, with assurances that all information will be treated confidentially.

The Police reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state and called for continued public cooperation in the fight against crime.