The Nigerian Army says troops of the 12 Brigade have successfully rescued 23 kidnapped passengers following a swift counter-kidnapping operation along the Ayegunle–Bunu Road in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, according to the Army, was launched in the early hours of June 1, 2026, after suspected bandits barricaded the highway and abducted several passengers travelling through the area.
Acting on a distress call received at about 3:30 a.m., troops deployed within Kabba metropolis immediately moved to the scene to confront the attackers and disrupt the kidnapping operation.
Although the kidnappers had fled before the arrival of security forces, the Army said troops launched an aggressive pursuit along the criminals’ suspected withdrawal routes in a bid to rescue the victims and prevent further escape.
During a search of the scene, troops reportedly recovered two Toyota commercial buses and a HOWO truck abandoned by the roadside as the attackers escaped under pressure.
The Army confirmed that two of the kidnapped passengers were found dead, while five others sustained injuries and were evacuated to St. Joseph Hospital in Kabba, where they are currently receiving treatment.
It added that sustained military pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon 23 captives, who were successfully rescued unharmed and secured by the troops.
The Nigerian Army said troops have continued to dominate the general area and are carrying out intensive search-and-rescue operations aimed at locating any remaining victims still in captivity and tracking down the fleeing suspects.
It reaffirmed its commitment to denying criminal elements freedom of action and urged members of the public to continue supporting ongoing security operations by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
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