The Kogi State Police Command has said that its officers stopped two kidnap attempts targeting 23 passengers along the Lokoja-Kabba highway on Monday, June 23, 2025.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Aya, the foiled kidnap incident was part of ongoing operations to tackle criminal activities in the state.
He noted that police officers from the Obajana Division were on patrol along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko axis when they heard gunshots and quickly moved to the scene.
Aya said the officers ran into armed attackers who had already ambushed a vehicle carrying passengers. On sighting the police patrol, the attackers opened fire. The officers quickly returned fire, leading to a gun battle that forced the criminals to escape into the nearby bushes, leaving the passengers behind.
“All the passengers were successfully rescued. Unfortunately, six victims sustained injuries, and one died while receiving treatment,” the police spokesman added.
Police said the patrol was part of regular efforts to boost public safety, especially in areas known for past security threats. The quick action of the officers prevented what could have been a mass abduction.
In a related event that happened two days earlier, on June 21, officers from Ayingba Division arrested two individuals identified as Umaru Jibril and Lukman Umaru.
The two were found with a locally made pistol, two live cartridges, and dried weeds believed to be Indian hemp. Both suspects are in custody and will be charged in court after investigations are concluded.
The state Commissioner of Police, Miller G. Dantawaye, noted that the police will continue to work with other security bodies to protect lives and property across Kogi.
