Troops of the Nigerian Army, on Monday, rescued 23 kidnapped passengers following a counter-kidnapping operation along the Ayegunle–Bunu Road in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Two victims, however, lost their lives during the rescue operations, while five others were injured.
The operation was launched in the early hours of Monday after bandits barricaded the highway and abducted several passengers travelling through the area.
According to a statement issued by the Spokesperson of 12 Brigade, Lt Abdulahi Hassan, on Monday, troops stationed within the Kabba metropolis responded swiftly to a distress call received at about 3:30 a.m. and moved to the scene to rescue the victims.
Although the kidnappers had fled before security operatives arrived, the troops immediately commenced a pursuit along the suspected escape routes of the criminals.
During an assessment of the attack scene, the troops recovered two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned by the roadside.
The Army said two victims were confirmed dead during the attack, while five others sustained injuries and were evacuated to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba, for treatment.
“The troops, during an assessment of the attack scene, recovered two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned by the roadside.
“Sadly, two victims were confirmed dead, while five others sustained injuries and were promptly evacuated to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba, where they are currently receiving treatment.
“The relentless pressure mounted by the pursuing troops forced the kidnappers to abandon 23 of their captives, who were subsequently rescued unharmed and secured,” the statement said.
The service added that troops had continued to dominate the area and were conducting intensive search-and-rescue operations to locate and safely recover any remaining victims still in captivity.
It reaffirmed its commitment to combating criminal activities and maintaining security across the country.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in denying criminal elements freedom of action and will continue to work closely with other security agencies and local stakeholders to strengthen security across Kogi State and the nation at large,” the statement added.
The Army also urged members of the public to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.