Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of one kidnapped passenger and the arrest of seven suspects following an armed attack on a commercial bus along the Ayere–Kabba Road, a key highway linking parts of southern and northern Nigeria.
The incident reportedly occurred on April 13, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m., when a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Chisco Transport Company, travelling from Lagos to Abuja, was ambushed by armed men. Security sources said the attackers blocked the vehicle, forced it to stop, and ordered passengers out before whisking several of them into nearby forested terrain.
Police authorities stated that a swift response was launched after a distress alert was received, leading to coordinated search-and-rescue operations involving police tactical units, military personnel, and other security formations operating in the area. These operations focused on surrounding forest routes believed to be escape paths and hideouts used by the attackers.
During the operation, one abducted passenger was rescued alive. The victim, identified as a 56-year-old man, was found during bush-combing activities conducted shortly after the attack. The bus used for the journey was also recovered at the scene and taken into custody for further investigation.
The police confirmed that seven suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the attack. Authorities said the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and are assisting investigators with information that may lead to the rescue of other kidnapped passengers and the identification of additional members of the criminal network involved.
Preliminary findings indicate that the attackers targeted the bus while it was travelling along the Ayere–Kabba axis, a route that has in recent years recorded multiple cases of kidnapping and armed robbery due to its isolated stretches and surrounding forest cover. Security analysts have repeatedly identified the corridor as a vulnerable highway used by criminal groups to ambush vehicles before retreating into nearby bush areas.
The Kogi State Police Command stated that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department has taken over the case. Tactical teams have been deployed across surrounding communities to continue search efforts and track down fleeing suspects. Officials confirmed that operations are ongoing to locate remaining abducted victims.
The police also recovered personal belongings of passengers from the scene, which are being documented as part of the investigation. Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of passengers abducted during the attack, but indications suggest that several individuals were taken into the forest during the incident.
Families of victims have been urged to remain calm while providing relevant information to assist ongoing rescue operations. The police also advised relatives to report to designated command offices to help with identification and coordination efforts.
The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of all abducted persons and bringing those responsible to justice. He noted that security agencies are intensifying patrols and surveillance along highways considered high-risk within the state.
He further warned criminal elements operating along the Ayere–Kabba corridor and other parts of the state that sustained security operations are underway and that security forces will continue to apply pressure until such threats are dismantled.
The incident reflects a continuing pattern of highway kidnappings in Kogi State, particularly along routes that connect major economic and transport hubs. These highways have become frequent targets for armed groups who exploit weak surveillance points and dense forest cover to carry out attacks.
In response to rising insecurity, security agencies have increased joint patrols and intelligence-led operations across major roads in the state. However, sporadic attacks continue to highlight persistent challenges in securing long interstate transport corridors.
Investigations into the attack are ongoing, and police authorities say further updates will be provided as search-and-rescue operations progress and more information becomes available regarding the network behind the kidnapping incident.
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