Four Suspected Kidnappers Killed as Security Forces Rescue 21 Abducted Victims in Kogi

Security forces in Kogi State have rescued 21 people, including 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), after they were abducted along the Itobe–Ajaokuta Highway.

The rescue operation, according to the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, resulted in the death of four suspected kidnappers following a fierce exchange of gunfire.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Kankarofi said security agencies moved quickly after receiving information that the victims had been taken into the bush.

He explained that a high-level security meeting involving the Brigade Commander, the police command and the Department of State Services (DSS) was held to coordinate the response.

A search-and-rescue operation was subsequently launched, with local vigilantes and hunters joining the security teams because of their familiarity with the surrounding terrain.

According to the commissioner, the operation eventually led security personnel to the suspected kidnappers’ hideout.