Seven suspects arrested as gunmen abduct passengers in Kogi

The Kogi State Police Command has launched a massive search-and-rescue operation following a kidnapping incident on the Ayere–Kabba Road in Kabba Local government area.

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According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, the incident occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. on April 13, 2026, when armed hoodlums intercepted a Commercial Toyota Hiace bus that was t raveling from Lagos to Abuja.

The police said that following a swift, coordinated response from security forces, one passenger was successfully rescued, while the transport vehicle had since been recovered and moved to a police facility for forensic examination.

Commenting on the incident, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, confirmed the arrest of the suspects in connection with the attack, adding that they are currently in custody and are assisting the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) with its inquiries.

“Efforts have been intensified to secure the release of the remaining abducted passengers, with sustained bush-combing and search-and-rescue operations currently ongoing by joint operatives of the Police, the Military, and other sister security agencies. So far, seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and are currently assisting ongoing investigations.

The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), supported by other tactical teams, remains actively engaged in ensuring the safe rescue of the victims and the swift apprehension of perpetrators. These operations are being vigorously pursued, and further developments will be communicated in due course,” the police said in the statement.

The Command urged the families and relatives of the victims to report to the SCID Headquarters in Lokoja, specifically the anti-kidnapping unit, to assist with identification and the ongoing investigation.

“The Kogi State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Naziru Kankarofi, reiterates its commitment to the protection of lives and property and warns criminal elements to desist forthwith, as the full weight of the law will be decisively brought to bear on anyone found culpable,” the statement added.