Kogi Police Rescue Kidnap Victim, Neutralize Suspect

On July 17, 2026, the Kogi State Police Command conducted a successful operation against kidnapping in Ayegunle Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area. Following reports of an armed kidnapping incident, a joint team comprising personnel from the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and local vigilantes was mobilized.

The operation targeted a camp in the Nila forest, where the kidnappers had taken the victim, Abubakar Kabiru. A fierce gun battle ensued, leading to the neutralization of one suspect, while others fled the scene.

The victim was rescued and is currently receiving treatment for gunshot injuries sustained during the incident. The operation also resulted in the recovery of an Italian-made pump-action gun, which has been deposited at the general hospital mortuary in Ayetoro Gbede as an exhibit.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, commended the efforts of the local security partners and reaffirmed the command's commitment to protecting lives and property in the state.