Four kidnappers gunned down during rescue of 15 Corps members, six others in Kogi
KOGI STATE, Nigeria — The Kogi State Police Command reported that a collaborative security operation successfully rescued 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) along with six other individuals who had been abducted. The operation resulted in the deaths of four alleged kidnappers during a tense exchange of gunfire.
During an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Kogi State Commissioner of Police Naziru Kankarofi detailed the swift response by security agencies following reports of the abduction.
“Upon receiving the alert, we implemented all necessary measures to ensure a safe return of the victims to their families,” Kankarofi said.
He explained that an emergency meeting convened by key security leaders—including the Brigade Commander, the Commissioner of Police, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS)—was essential for coordinating the rescue effort.
“We organized a search-and-rescue operation which commenced without delay. As events unfolded, we focused on a specific location and enlisted the support of local vigilantes and hunters familiar with the area,” Kankarofi noted.
The operation intensified on Sunday and led security personnel to the kidnappers’ camp by Monday.
“By 4:00 p.m. yesterday, we reached the kidnappers’ camp, where a significant gun battle ensued. Ultimately, we overpowered them and successfully rescued all the corps members,” he confirmed.
However, Kankarofi reported that one corps member and a civilian sustained gunshot injuries during the confrontation.
“Regrettably, both individuals were shot in their right legs: one corps member and one civilian who had been abducted from a second vehicle,” he added.
The commissioner explained that the corps members were traveling from Bayelsa State when they were ambushed along the Itobe–Ajaokuta Highway around 5:00 p.m.
“When they entered Kogi along the Itobe-Ajaokuta Highway, they were attacked and taken into the bush along with passengers from another vehicle coming from the opposite direction,” Kankarofi said.
In an update on the rescue operation, he confirmed that four kidnappers were killed during the gunfight, while several others escaped with injuries.
“Four of the kidnappers were killed during the exchange of fire, and several fled with bullet wounds. We have continued our search and rescue operation to secure the area and apprehend the escaping suspects,” he stated.
Kankarofi added that security forces remain on high alert, with nearby security formations mobilized to track down the fleeing assailants.
Addressing concerns about the overall safety in the state, the police commissioner characterized the incident as an isolated occurrence.
“Kogi State has generally been peaceful and calm. Our security forces are effective and respond promptly,” he said.
“Traveling through Kogi State can be done with confidence and without concern,” Kankarofi asserted.
