The Kogi State Police Command has rescued a kidnapped victim, neutralised a suspected kidnapper, and recovered an Italian-made pump-action gun following a joint security operation in Ayegunle Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area.
The latest operation forms part of the command’s ongoing campaign against kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
Kidnappers Stormed Home Before Dawn
According to the Kogi State Police Command, armed kidnappers invaded the residence of Abubakar Kabiru, a resident of Nila Forest Camp in Ayegunle Gbede, during the early hours of Friday, July 17, 2026.
The attackers reportedly abducted the victim and forced him into a nearby forest before security operatives were alerted.
Police spokesperson ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat said the Divisional Police Officer of Ayetoro Gbede Division immediately coordinated a rapid response after receiving the distress report.
Joint Security Team Overpowered Kidnappers
A combined team of police officers, personnel from the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), officers on special duty, and local vigilantes launched a coordinated operation into the Olle-Bunu Forest.
Security operatives tracked the kidnappers to their hideout, where a fierce exchange of gunfire ensued.
During the confrontation, one suspected kidnapper was killed, while the remaining gang members fled deeper into the forest under heavy pressure from the security team.
The abducted victim was successfully rescued during the operation.
Police confirmed that the victim sustained a gunshot wound during the incident and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Italian-Made Pump-Action Gun Recovered
Following the gun battle, operatives recovered the body of the deceased suspect along with an Italian-made pump-action shotgun bearing breach number 5882.
The suspect’s body has been deposited at the General Hospital Mortuary in Ayetoro Gbede, while the recovered firearm has been secured as evidence for further investigation.
The police said efforts are continuing to trace other members of the kidnapping gang who escaped during the operation.
Police Commissioner Praises Operatives
Kogi State Commissioner of Police CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi commended the officers, tactical units, and local vigilantes involved in the successful rescue mission.
He described the operation as another demonstration of the command’s determination to combat kidnapping and violent crimes through intelligence-led policing and community collaboration.
The Commissioner also assured residents that security agencies remain committed to tracking down the fleeing suspects and dismantling the criminal network responsible for the abduction.
He urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information that can assist security agencies in preventing crime and improving public safety across Kogi State.
Kogi Police Intensify Crackdown on Kidnapping
The latest rescue operation adds to a series of security offensives by the Kogi State Police Command aimed at curbing kidnapping and armed criminal activities in the state.
Authorities say stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities remains critical to sustaining the fight against kidnappers and ensuring the safety of residents.
