Seventeen kidnapped passengers have regained their freedom in Kogi State following a joint rescue mission carried out by the Nigerian Army, Quick Response Units, and hunters from Lokoja Local Government.
The operation took place at Apamaro in Adavi Local Government Area after the victims were abducted by armed criminals.
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A statement by Mr. Zakari Ahmed, the Public Relations Officer of Lokoja Local Government, confirmed the development on Wednesday. He noted that the rescue was made possible through swift action coordinated under the leadership of Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. K.U. Sidi.
According to Ahmed, the security team responded promptly to a distress call and pursued the kidnappers into their hideouts, forcing them to abandon their captives. All 17 victims were safely recovered without casualties, bringing relief to anxious families and communities.
The Chairman of Lokoja Local Government, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu, praised the gallantry of the troops and hunters involved in the mission.
He said the success was a reflection of growing synergy between conventional forces and local security groups across the state.
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Adamu further recalled that the latest breakthrough came just days after another successful rescue in Ankomi, Tunga, Aleke, Angwan Sani, and Angwan Nyaba communities, where several victims were freed and reunited with their families.
He described the trend as a clear signal of government’s renewed commitment to securing lives and property.
The council boss also commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for backing the operations with logistics and moral support, stressing that the governor’s proactive approach to security was helping to dismantle criminal enclaves across Kogi.
