Army rescue 23 passengers abducted in Kogi highway attack

The Nigerian Army says its troops have rescued 23 abducted passengers on Monday morning by suspected bandits along the Ayegunle–Bunu road in Kabba-Bunu LGA of Kogi state.

The army, in a statement, said the rescue followed a counter-kidnapping operation after receiving a distress call at about 3:30 am.

According to the statement, the suspected bandits barricaded the highway and abducted several passengers travelling through the area.

“Although the kidnappers had fled before the arrival of security forces, troops swiftly initiated an aggressive pursuit along the criminals’ suspected withdrawal routes,” the statement reads.

“The troops during an assessment of the attack scene recovered two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned by the roadside.

“Sadly, two victims were confirmed dead, while five others sustained injuries and were promptly evacuated to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba, where they are currently receiving treatment.

“The relentless pressure mounted by the pursuing troops forced the kidnappers to abandon 23 of their captives, who were subsequently rescued unharmed and secured.”

The army said troops have continued to dominate the area and are conducting intensive search-and-rescue operations to locate and safely recover any remaining victims still being held captive.

Earlier on Monday, Saliu Oyiza, police spokesperson in Kogi, said the victims were 26 men and four women.