Crime

See the Numbers Killed, Injured as Police Foil Kidnap Attempt on Lokoja-Kabba Road

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 24th, 2025.

See the Numbers Killed, Injured as Police Foil Kidnap Attempt on Lokoja-Kabba Road

A suspected kidnapping attempt along the Lokoja-Kabba highway turned deadly on Monday when gunmen ambushed a commercial vehicle, leaving one passenger dead and six others injured. The swift intervention of the Kogi State Police Command, however, prevented the abduction of 23 travelers.

According to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, officers from the Obajana Division were on routine patrol along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko route when they heard gunshots and responded immediately.

“The patrol team engaged the assailants in a gun battle after encountering heavy gunfire from the criminals. Their timely response forced the attackers to retreat, abandoning their plan and fleeing into the bush,” the statement said.

While all passengers were rescued, one succumbed to injuries while receiving medical treatment, and six others sustained varying degrees of wounds.

In a separate operation on June 21, police officers from the Ayingba Division apprehended two individuals—Umaru Jibril and Lukman Umaru—in possession of a locally fabricated firearm, two live cartridges, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.

Commissioner of Police, Miller G. Dantawaye, reiterated the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the state. He assured residents that the suspects will face legal action following the conclusion of the in

vestigation.