Troops In Kogi Crush Kidnappers’ Escape Plan, Rescue 23 Victims
Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have rescued 23 kidnapped passengers following a swift counter-kidnapping operation along the Ayegunle–Bunu Road in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation was launched in the early hours of Sunday, June 1, 2026, after suspected bandits reportedly barricaded the highway and abducted several passengers travelling through the area. According to the Army, troops stationed within the Kabba metropolis responded immediately after receiving a distress call at about 3:30 a.m.
Although the kidnappers had fled before security personnel arrived at the scene, troops quickly commenced an aggressive pursuit along the suspects’ escape routes. During an assessment of the area, soldiers recovered two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned by the roadside.
The Army disclosed that two victims lost their lives during the attack, while five others sustained injuries. The injured victims were evacuated to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba, where they are receiving treatment.
Military authorities said the sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the kidnappers to abandon 23 captives, who were subsequently rescued unharmed and secured.
Troops have continued to dominate the area and are conducting intensive search-and-rescue operations to locate and safely recover any remaining victims who may still be in captivity.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to denying criminal elements freedom of action and pledged continued collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to strengthen security across Kogi State and the country.
The public was also urged to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information to relevant security agencies.
