Two Security Personnel Killed As 21 Passengers Escape Kogi Bandit Attacks
At least 21 passengers were rescued unhurt after coordinated attacks by armed bandits on multiple vehicles along Kogi State highways on Thursday.
Two security personnel were confirmed dead during the ensuing rescue operation.
Sources said about 100 armed bandits targeted a Toyota Siena (YAB 968 AX) traveling from Oshogbo to Kaduna, a Toyota Hiace bus (7BGT-78LG) carrying passengers from Owo, Ondo State to Abuja, another Toyota Hiace (GKP 178 XA) from Abuja to Ekiti State, a Toyota Carina (JMU 648 AA) from Lokoja to Kabba, a Dangote truck transporting 900 bags of cement, and a J5 bus (FTA 313 XV) carrying bags of pepper from Kano to Lagos.
The attacks occurred around 2:00 p.m., leaving passengers at risk of abduction.
A joint rescue operation involving the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Quick Response Units (QRU), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps vigilantes, local hunters, and other security operatives engaged the bandits in a gun duel.
The operation successfully freed 21 passengers, including men, women, and infants.
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Rescued passengers include Moses Oladimeji, Adele Jacob, Obed Onche, Babayemi Ajayi, Funmilayo Ajayi, Samuel Olawoyin, Samuel Job, Jemima Joseph, Nanko Joseph, Enenche Paulina, Bright Enenche, Rachael Enenche, Deborah Enenche (9 days old), Bukola Clement, Toyin Clement, Glory Clement, Faith Clement, Peter Olawale, and the drivers of the Dangote truck and J5 bus.
Tragically, one soldier attached to the Oshokoshoko sector and one vigilante from Odoape lost their lives during the exchange of fire.
Their identities are yet to be confirmed.
Rescue operations are ongoing to track down any remaining abducted victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
Communities along the highways have been placed on high alert following the attacks, underscoring the persistent threat of organized banditry in Kogi State.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
