Police Rescue 23 Kidnap Victims in Niger State Amid Rising Kidnapping Incidents

Niger State Police have successfully rescued 23 kidnapping victims, including four individuals abducted in a separate incident that resulted in the death of their driver, identified as Emeka. 

The tragic event occurred on Sunday as a vehicle traveled from Kebbi State to Asaba, Delta State, with the attack taking place between Kwana-Barau and Kundu village.

According to Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, the vehicle involved was a Toyota with registration number LND 863 YF. 

The assailants reportedly ambushed the vehicle, fatally shooting Emeka before abducting four passengers. The police confirmed the incident in a statement released on Monday.

"On November 3, 2024, at about 6 a.m., it was reported that suspected kidnappers attacked a vehicle traveling from Yawuri in Kebbi State to Asaba, Delta State," Abiodun stated. 

He noted that swift action from a joint security tactical team led to the successful rescue of the four abducted passengers, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining victim.

In a separate operation, the police rescued 19 passengers who had been kidnapped while traveling from Sokoto to Bayelsa. This incident occurred on November 1, when a Toyota bus with registration number LG 08 DGS was intercepted along the Tegina-Zungeru road, and the passengers were taken into a nearby forest.

Following the attack, security forces launched a rescue operation, resulting in the recovery of 12 victims from the Pangugari forest in Rafi Local Government Area on November 2. 

Later that day, seven additional victims were rescued, bringing the total to 19. All rescued passengers received medical attention at a nearby clinic and were safely returned to Sokoto on November 3.

Abiodun reassured the public that the police are committed to addressing the ongoing kidnapping threat in the region, emphasizing their vigilance and determination to combat such criminal activities. 

The incidents highlight the pressing security challenges in Nigeria, prompting ongoing discussions about enhancing safety measures for travelers across the country.