From Premium Times Nigeria · Manasseh Mbachii · · 2m
Soldiers rescue 11 passengers from kidnappers in Kogi
Nigerian Army saves 11 people from kidnappers in Kogi State.
In brief
Nigerian Army saves 11 people from kidnappers in Kogi State. Nigerian Army rescued 11 passengers from suspected kidnappers along Kabba-Ayere Road in Kogi State after a two-day operation. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
Rescue operation
Nigerian Army troops rescued 11 passengers during an operation against suspected kidnappers along Kabba-Ayere Road in Kogi State.
Initial rescue
Troops initially rescued nine passengers including the vehicle driver who sustained injuries and required medical attention.
Follow-up operation
A follow-up search on Monday rescued two additional passengers who fled into the bush during the encounter.
Total rescued
The operation brought the total number of rescued passengers to 11.
Security concerns
The operation comes amid continuing security concerns in Kogi State where kidnappings and attacks on travelers have raised fears about road safety.
Recent incidents
Recent weeks have seen abductions and killings that underscore risks faced by residents and commuters traveling through parts of the state and neighboring areas.
Rosemary Adukwu case
Rosemary Adukwu, a councillor representing Ogugu Ward III in Olamaboro Local Government Area, was abducted on 30 September while traveling to Onitsha and later died.
Army's statement
Hassan Abdullahi, an Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the 12 Composite Brigade, disclosed the operation in a statement issued on Monday.
Operation details
Troops deployed at the brigade’s patrol base in Kabba were on routine patrol when they received credible information about suspected terrorists attempting to abduct passengers.
Engagement with terrorists
On arrival, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee into the surrounding bush.
Evacuation
The driver and two other passengers who sustained injuries were evacuated for medical attention, while the commercial vehicle was handed over to the appropriate authority.
Army's commitment
The operation demonstrated the army’s commitment to protecting lives and property and improving commuter safety in Kogi State.
The essence
Nigerian Army rescued 11 passengers from suspected kidnappers along Kabba-Ayere Road in Kogi State after a two-day operation.
