The Kogi State Police Command has rescued ten out of the fifteen corps members abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State last Wednesday, August 26. The victims were travelling from the NYSC orientation camp in Bayelsa State when they were abducted.
Abduction During Post-Orientation Travel
The corps members were reportedly on their way to Abuja after completing the three-week orientation programme in Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA of Bayelsa when armed assailants attacked the vehicles. The attack occurred on the Aloma-Egane Expressway, a route commonly used by travellers heading to the Federal Capital Territory.
The state Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarufi, confirmed the development to newsmen, stating that security agents are combing the surrounding forests and intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining victims. The police boss mentioned that several suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack.
Police Operations and Ongoing Search
According to Commissioner Kankarufi, the rescue operation is ongoing, with security personnel deployed to the forests near the abduction site. The police are working to locate and free the five corps members still in captivity.
The commissioner did not disclose the identities of the rescued corps members or the exact number of suspects arrested, but he assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.
Impact and Next Steps
The abduction has raised concerns about the safety of travellers on Nigerian highways, particularly those using the Aloma-Egane Expressway. The police command has urged residents and travellers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
As the search continues, the police have promised to provide updates on the rescue efforts. The safe rescue of the remaining five NYSC members remains the immediate priority for the Kogi State Police Command.
