The Kogi State Police Command has launched a large-scale search-and-rescue operation following a kidnapping incident along the Ayere–Kabba Road in Kabba Local Government Area, after armed attackers intercepted a commercial bus travelling from Lagos to Abuja.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, the incident occurred when armed hoodlums ambushed a Toyota Hiace bus, forcing it to a halt before abducting several passengers.
The bus, operated by a transport company, was reportedly en route from Lagos to Abuja when it came under attack within the Kabba axis of Kabba Local Government Area.
Security operatives confirmed that a swift coordinated response led to the rescue of one passenger shortly after the attack. The vehicle has also been recovered and taken to a police facility for forensic examination.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, confirmed that arrests have already been made in connection the incident.
CP Kankarofi disclosed that seven suspects are currently in custody and are assisting investigators at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
He said intensified efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining abducted passengers.
“Efforts have been intensified to secure the release of the remaining abducted passengers, with sustained bush-combing and search-and-rescue operations currently ongoing by joint operatives of the Police, the Military, and other sister security agencies,” the statement read.
He added that tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the SCID, remain fully deployed to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe rescue of all victims.
“So far, seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and are currently assisting ongoing investigations. The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), supported by other tactical teams, remains actively engaged in ensuring the safe rescue of the victims and the swift apprehension of perpetrators,” the statement added.
The command urged families of the victims to report to the SCID Headquarters in Lokoja for identification and updates on ongoing investigations.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the police warned criminal elements to desist from such acts or face the full weight of the law.
“The Kogi State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Naziru Kankarofi, reiterates its commitment to the protection of lives and property and warns criminal elements to desist forthwith, as the full weight of the law will be decisively brought to bear on anyone found culpable,” the statement concluded.
