A swift military operation has led to the rescue of 23 kidnapped passengers after armed bandits attacked travellers along the Ayegunle–Bunu Road in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, also claimed the lives of two victims, while five others suffered injuries.
According to the Nigerian Army, the kidnappers had intercepted vehicles on the highway and abducted several passengers before troops moved in response to an emergency alert.
In a statement released by the spokesperson of the 12 Brigade, Lt. Abdulahi Hassan, troops based in Kabba received a distress call around 3:30 a.m. and immediately deployed to the area.
By the time the soldiers arrived, the attackers had already fled the scene with their captives. However, troops quickly launched a pursuit operation and followed the suspected escape routes used by the kidnappers.
During a search of the area, security personnel found two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned along the road.
“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 statement said.
The Army noted that troops have maintained operations in the area and are continuing search-and-rescue efforts to ensure that no victim remains in captivity.
Military authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to tackling insecurity and protecting communities from criminal activities.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in denying criminal elements freedom of action and will continue to work closely with other security agencies and local stakeholders to strengthen security across Kogi State and the nation at large,” the statement added.
The Army further called on residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful and timely information that could aid ongoing operations and help bring perpetrators to justice.