A kidnap attempt on 23 passengers along the Lokoja-Kabba road in Kogi State ended in tragedy on Monday, with one passenger losing their life and six others injured during a police rescue operation.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya. According to him, the police patrol team attached to Obajana Division acted quickly after hearing gunshots in the area. The officers responded and engaged the armed kidnappers in a gun battle, which forced the attackers to flee and abandon their captives.
“All the passengers were successfully rescued,” Aya said. “Unfortunately, six victims sustained injuries, and one died while receiving treatment.”
He explained that the incident was part of the command’s continued efforts to rid Kogi State of criminal activities. The police also noted that the passengers were travelling in a commercial vehicle when the attack happened near the Obajana–Oshokoshoko Road.
In a separate operation, police officers from the Ayingba Division arrested two men, Umaru Jibril and Lukman Umaru, on June 21 for illegal possession of a locally made pistol, two live cartridges, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
The Commissioner of Police, Miller G. Dantawaye, expressed his deep concern over the attack but praised the swift action of the police operatives. He also assured Kogi residents that the police, working with other security agencies, are committed to protecting lives and property.
He said the suspects arrested in the other operation would be charged in court after investigations are concluded.
Monday’s attempted abduction is one of several recent attacks on highways across Nigeria. Many travellers have raised concerns about safety while moving between cities, especially at night or early in the morning.
The police have asked the public to remain calm and continue to share information that could help prevent future attacks.
