One Rescued, Seven Arrested After Gunmen Attack Bus on Ayere-Kabba Road in Kogi State

By Toffa Momoh

LOKOJA— The Kogi State Police Command says it has rescued one victim and arrested seven suspects following a kidnapping incident along the Ayere–Kabba Road on April 13, 2026.

Police said armed men attacked a Chisco Transport Company Toyota Hiace bus, registration number KJA 405 YJ, traveling from Lagos to Abuja at about 8:30 p.m. The attack occurred inward Kabba Local Government Area.

A joint security response led to the rescue of 56-year-old Adoun Julius. The bus was also recovered and taken to the police station for further investigation.

Commissioner of Police Naziru Bello Kankarofi said operations have been intensified to secure the release of the remaining abducted passengers. Police, military, and other security agencies are conducting bush-combing and search-and-rescue operations.

Seven suspects linked to the incident are in custody and assisting investigators, according to the Command. The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department, backed by tactical teams, is leading the effort to rescue victims and apprehend other perpetrators.

CP Kankarofi urged the public to remain calm and provide credible information to aid operations, assuring that all tips will be treated confidentially. Families of victims have been asked to report to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit at the SCID Headquarters in Lokoja to assist with identification and investigations.

The Command restated its commitment to protecting lives and property and warned that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.

Members of the public can report suspicious activity to the Command’s control room at 0703 832 9084 or 0815 219 5982.

The update was issued by Police Public Relations Officer ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat on Friday April 17, 2026.