The Kogi State Police Command has arrested seven suspected kidnappers and rescued one victim following a deadly ambush on a passenger bus along the Ayere–Kabba Road, in what authorities describe as a swift and coordinated security response.
The attack occurred on April 13, 2026, when a Toyota Hiace bus operated by Chisco Transport, travelling from Lagos to Abuja, was intercepted by armed men at about 8:30 p.m., triggering a wave of concern over safety on the highway.
Police spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said in a statement on Thursday that operatives, working with the military and other security agencies, moved quickly to contain the situation.
Their efforts led to the rescue of one passenger, Adoun Julius, 56, and the recovery of the bus, while a manhunt for the remaining abducted passengers intensified.
Authorities confirmed that seven suspects have been taken into custody and are currently assisting investigators as security forces expand operations across surrounding forests.
“The Command is fully on top of the situation,” Afusat said, noting that specialised units, including the Anti-Kidnapping squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), have sustained search-and-rescue missions in the area.
Security teams have since launched aggressive bush-combing operations, targeting suspected hideouts in a bid to secure the safe return of the remaining victims.
Images released by the police show the recovered vehicle, a burnt structure believed to be linked to the attackers, and armed operatives navigating dense terrain during the operation.
While urging calm, the police called on residents to remain alert and support ongoing efforts with timely and credible information, assuring that all intelligence provided would be handled confidentially.
Families of affected passengers have also been directed to report to the SCID headquarters in Lokoja to aid identification and facilitate investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, reaffirmed the command’s resolve to bring all perpetrators to justice, warning that criminal elements operating within the state will face decisive action.
The latest operation comes amid renewed concerns over highway security, with authorities under pressure to curb rising incidents of kidnapping and restore public confidence in interstate travel.
Seven Arrested as Police Rescue Victim in Kogi Bus Kidnap Attack
