The Nigerian Army has rescued nine kidnapped victims in Kogi State during an operation aimed at disrupting criminal activities and securing the affected communities.

Rescued kidnapped victim. Photo credit: Army

The Nigerian Army has rescued nine commuters abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Ajaokuta–Itobe Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

In a statement shared on its official X account on Tuesday, the Army said the rescue followed a swift response by troops deployed at Patrol Base Itobe after receiving reports of an attack on commuters along the route.

The statement said troops who arrived at the scene found a Toyota Hiace bus and a Toyota Sienna vehicle abandoned by the roadside, with the passengers nowhere to be found.

It said the troops immediately launched a pursuit operation, following the route taken by the fleeing kidnappers to the outskirts of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area.

According to the Army, the troops engaged the kidnappers in a firefight, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush.

“During the ensuing firefight, the troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower, compelling them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot wounds,” the statement said.

The Army said nine victims were rescued during the operation, comprising two elderly men, two elderly women, four other adult males and an infant.

“The rescued victims were immediately evacuated to safety and subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police, Itobe Area Command, for further necessary action and reunification with their families,” it added.

Meanwhile, the army said troops had continued their pursuit of the fleeing kidnappers, while coordinated search operations were ongoing to rescue other victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

“Troops have sustained the ongoing pursuit of the fleeing kidnappers, with coordinated search operations continuing to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack,” the statement said.

The army also urged members of the public to support security operations by providing timely and credible information that could aid the prompt response to criminal activities.

“The Nigerian Army reassures members of the public of its unwavering commitment, in collaboration with other security agencies, to protecting lives and property across the country,” it said.