In a string of successful operations across Nigeria, police commands in Kogi, Lagos, and Katsina states have thwarted various kidnapping attempts, rescuing a total of 29 victims without casualties and recovering arms and ammunition.
On June 23, 2025, operatives of the Kogi State Police Command, while on patrol along the Obajana, Oshokoshoko road, repelled a kidnap attempt involving three commercial vehicles.
According to a statement signed by Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa, a fierce gun battle ensued between the police and the suspected kidnappers, culminating in the rescue of all 24 victims unhurt.
A day earlier, on June 22, officers attached to the Okene Division of the Kogi Command intercepted a suspicious Nissan vehicle en route to Auchi.
The statement revealed that the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into the nearby forest.
Upon conducting a detailed search, police recovered an AK-47 rifle, 28 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, a G3 magazine, a black shirt, various phone accessories, and personal items. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
In Lagos, police operatives from the Morogbo Division acted swiftly on intelligence to rescue a 20-year-old male victim, Kehinde, who had been lured via WhatsApp and abducted in the Ikoga area.
The kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦500,000 from his family. However, the operation led to the arrest of three suspects, Celestine Okeke (28), Michael Okonkwo (25), and Kehinde Oladun (30). The victim was rescued unhurt and reunited with his family.
Meanwhile, in Katsina State, the police responded to a distress call from Mazare village over a kidnapping attempt.
Officers mobilised quickly and engaged the kidnappers in a gunfight.
The assailants, overwhelmed by police firepower, fled with gunshot wounds, leading to the safe rescue of four kidnapped victims.
