Olusegun Ariyo
The Kogi State Police Command has announced the successful foiling of two kidnapping attempts targeting 23 passengers along the Lokoja/Kabba road on Monday.
In a statement released by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, the operation was described as “part of sustained efforts to rid Kogi State of all forms of crime and criminality.”
According to the statement, on June 23, 2025, operatives from the Obajana Division were on a routine confidence-building patrol along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko Road when they intercepted an attempted abduction by armed hoodlums.
“The patrol team responded promptly to the sporadic gunfire heard in the area and engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel.
“Upon sighting the police, the hoodlums opened fire but were repelled, which forced them to abandon their victims and flee.”
All 23 passengers were successfully rescued during the operation. However, six of the victims sustained injuries, and sadly, one died while receiving medical attention.
In a separate development, on June 21, 2025, operatives attached to the Ayingba Division arrested two suspects, Umaru Jibril and Lukman Umaru, found in possession of a locally made pistol, two live cartridges, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to working in synergy with other security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the state.
He added that the arrested suspects will be charged in court upon conclusion of investigations.
