Four kidnappers gunned down during rescue of 15 Corps members, six others in Kogi

The Kogi State Police Command has revealed how a joint security operation led to the rescue of 15 abducted National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, members and six other victims, while four suspected kidnappers were killed during a gun battle.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, Naziru Kankarofi, said security agencies swiftly mobilised after receiving reports of the abduction.

“As soon as we were alerted, we put all necessary measures in place to ensure they were rescued and returned to their families,” Kankarofi said.

According to him, an emergency meeting involving the Brigade Commander, Commissioner of Police and Director of the Department of State Services, DSS, was immediately convened to coordinate a rescue mission.

“We fashioned out a search-and-rescue operation, which commenced immediately. As the situation unfolded, we narrowed down to a particular spot and sought the support of local vigilantes and hunters who know the terrain very well,” he stated.

The police boss explained that the operation gained momentum on Sunday and eventually led security operatives to the kidnappers’ camp on Monday.

“Around 4:00 p.m. yesterday, we arrived at the camp of the kidnappers. There was a serious gun battle; they were eventually overpowered, and all the corps members were rescued,” he said.

He, however, disclosed that one corps member and one civilian sustained gunshot injuries during the operation.

“Unfortunately, two people suffered gunshot injuries to their right legs: one corps member and one civilian who was abducted from the second vehicle,” Kankarofi added.

The commissioner explained that the corps members were travelling from Bayelsa State when they were ambushed along the Itobe–Ajaokuta Highway in Kogi State around 5:00 p.m.

“When they entered Kogi along the Itobe-Ajaokuta Highway around 5:00 p.m., they were attacked and abducted into the bush alongside passengers from another vehicle coming from the opposite direction,” he said.

Providing an update on the rescue mission, Kankarofi disclosed that four kidnappers were killed during the exchange of gunfire, while others escaped with injuries.

“Four of the kidnappers were killed during the exchange of fire, and several escaped with bullet wounds. A search-and-rescue operation has been going on since yesterday to mop up the area and arrest the fleeing suspects,” he stated.

He added that security operatives remain on the ground, with neighbouring security formations also placed on alert to track down the fleeing suspects.

Reacting to concerns about insecurity in the state, the police commissioner described the incident as an isolated case.

“Kogi State has been generally peaceful and calm. The security forces here are very effective and respond promptly,” he said.

“You can feel free to travel through Kogi State with nothing to worry about.”