Army rescues 23 kidnapped passengers in Kogi

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…Recovers Vehicles, Intensifies Hunt for Abductors

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By Kingsley Omonobi

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Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, on Monday rescued 23 kidnapped passengers following a swift counter-kidnapping operation along the Ayegunle–Bunu Road in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

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The operation was launched in the early hours of June 1, 2026, after suspected bandits reportedly barricaded the highway and abducted several passengers travelling through the area.

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According to the Army, troops stationed within Kabba metropolis responded immediately after receiving a distress call at about 3:30 a.m. and moved to the scene of the attack.

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Although the kidnappers had fled before the arrival of security personnel, the troops promptly commenced an aggressive pursuit along the suspected escape routes of the criminals.

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During an assessment of the scene, soldiers recovered two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned by the roadside.

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The Army disclosed that two victims lost their lives during the incident, while five others sustained injuries. The injured victims were evacuated to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba, where they are receiving treatment.

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It added that sustained pressure from the pursuing troops forced the kidnappers to abandon 23 captives, who were subsequently rescued unharmed.

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The Army said 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.

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Reaffirming its commitment to tackling insecurity, the Nigerian Army said it remains determined to deny criminal elements freedom of action and will continue to collaborate with other security agencies and local stakeholders to strengthen security across Kogi State and the country.

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The Army also appealed to members of the public to support ongoing security operations by providing timely and credible information to relevant authorities.

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