Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued nine kidnapped commuters following a swift response to a kidnap incident along the Ajaokuta–Itobe Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The rescue operation was carried out by troops deployed at Patrol Base Itobe after receiving reports that suspected kidnappers had ambushed commuters and abducted several passengers along the route.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, on arrival at the scene, the troops discovered a Toyota Hiace bus and a Toyota Sienna vehicle abandoned by the roadside, with all passengers missing.
Acting without delay, the troops launched a pursuit operation, exploiting the withdrawal route of the fleeing criminals.
The operation led the troops to the outskirts of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, where they established contact with the kidnappers.
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.
It said the operation resulted in the successful rescue of nine kidnapped victims, comprising two elderly men, two elderly women, four other adult males and one 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.
Meanwhile, 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.