The Kogi State Police Command has rescued 11 persons who were kidnapped along the Aloma–Egane road in Ofu Local Government Area on Tuesday, 26 August 2026.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, disclosed this in an official statement on Friday.

According to the statement, the incident occurred at about 4:40pm when armed men emerged from the bush around Ogene Zaria, near Ogene Zaria/Onicha-Igo Junction.

The assailants blocked two buses travelling in opposite directions, abducted some passengers, while others escaped into the surrounding bush.

On receiving a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer, Ofu, led a joint security team to the scene. Two abandoned vehicles were recovered.

The Command immediately launched a coordinated bush-combing and rescue operation. This led to the successful rescue of 11 abducted victims, including the drivers of the two buses.

Preliminary debriefing revealed that most of the rescued victims are NYSC members travelling from the Permanent Orientation Camp in Kolokuma/Opokuma, Bayelsa State, to Abuja.

After debriefing and necessary procedures, the rescued victims were allowed to continue their journey.

The Command also confirmed another armed attack along the Itobe–Ochadamu Expressway, specifically around Ojuwo Olijo in Ofu LGA, on Thursday, 27 August 2026 at about 5:00pm.

ASP Afusat said armed assailants emerged from the bush and opened fire at motorists. A blue Toyota Corolla, registration number GWA 636 CH, was found abandoned along the highway.

The driver was found dead inside the vehicle, while another occupant was taken away by the attackers.

The Command said it is working with other security agencies. Personnel are currently combing the surrounding forest to locate and rescue the abducted victim and to track down those responsible.

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has directed sustained operational efforts to secure the affected corridor and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The Police urged motorists and residents along the route to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to the Police or other security agencies.

SOURCE: Kogi State Police Command.