Police operatives in Kogi State have rescued eight passengers abducted by gunmen along the Okene–Auchi highway on Monday afternoon.
The incident reportedly took place around 3:48 p.m. yesterday when about 15 heavily armed men, disguised in military camouflage, ambushed a Toyota Hiace Hummer bus belonging to Big Joe Ventures Ltd.
The bus, registered as EDO UBJ 114 ZY, was en route from Abuja to Benin City, Edo State, with 11 passengers on board.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers opened fire on the vehicle, injuring a female passenger identified as Adesuwa Bright, who sustained a gunshot wound to her left shoulder.
The armed gang then whisked several passengers into the nearby forest.
Confirming the development, a police source said officers immediately swung into action following a distress call.
“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer in Okene mobilised a joint team of the Police Mobile Force and local vigilantes to the scene,” the source stated.
The injured victim was promptly taken to CUSTECH Hospital, Okene, where she is reportedly receiving treatment.
Security operatives later tracked the kidnappers into the bush and engaged them in a fierce gun battle, which forced the criminals to abandon eight of their captives.
The victims were rescued unharmed and brought to safety.
However, two passengers are still being held by the abductors, who managed to escape during the exchange of gunfire.
Kogi State Police Command spokesman said efforts are ongoing to locate and free the remaining victims.
“We’ve intensified bush-combing operations and launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects,” the spokesman said.
“Our goal is to ensure all the victims return safely and those responsible face the full weight of the law.”
Residents have since applauded the swift response of security agencies while urging authorities to boost surveillance on the Okene–Auchi route, a stretch increasingly notorious for highway kidnappings.