Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued nine kidnapped commuters following a swift response to an ambush by suspected kidnappers along the Ajaokuta–Itobe Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The rescue operation was launched by troops deployed at Patrol Base Itobe after receiving reports that suspected kidnappers had attacked commuters and abducted several passengers along the busy route.
Upon arrival at the scene, the troops discovered an abandoned Toyota Hiace bus and Toyota Sienna vehicle by the roadside, with the passengers nowhere to be found.
The troops immediately commenced a pursuit operation, following the suspected escape route of the kidnappers. Their efforts led them to the outskirts of Adumu community in Dekina Local Government Area, where they made contact with the fleeing criminals.
A firefight subsequently ensued, during which the troops overpowered the kidnappers with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot wounds.
Nine victims were rescued during the operation. They comprised two elderly men, two elderly women, four other adult males and an infant.
The rescued commuters were immediately evacuated to safety and later handed over to the Nigeria Police, Itobe Area Command, for further necessary action and reunification with their families.
The Army said troops have sustained the pursuit of the fleeing kidnappers, with coordinated search operations ongoing to rescue any remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment, in collaboration with other security agencies, to protecting lives and property across the country.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to facilitate rapid responses to criminal activities and strengthen ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other forms of insecurity.
