13 Arrested, Kidnap Victims Rescued in Major Kogi-Kwara Joint Operation

Twelve suspected kidnappers and one informant have been arrested during a Kogi-Kwara joint security operation, authorities confirmed.

Security agents successfully rescued multiple kidnapped victims—mostly women—and dismantled a notorious criminal corridor operating within Kogi West.

The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed the arrests via a press statement seen by Umpire News.

The joint raid was conducted by a Hybrid Force under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and operatives from Forward Operating Base (FOB), Egbe.

Targeted locations included Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke in Kogi State, as well as Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in Kwara State.

The arrested suspects are: Mainasara Abubakar, Sadik Abubakar, Jude Sani, Sanda Abubakar, Lawali Usman, Tukur Shehu, Hassan Abubakar, Kabiru Surajo, Makiri Dodo, Bala Hassan, Umaru Sanda, Ruwa Abubakar, and Rabiu Makeri, the informant.

During the operation, a fierce gunfight broke out, forcing other kidnappers to abandon their motorcycles, weapons, and victims.

Fortunately, all rescued hostages were unharmed. However, one brave officer sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment in Yagba West.

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo commended the bravery of the security forces and pledged to cover all medical costs.

He reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance policy for crime, vowing continued action against kidnapping and violent crimes in the region.

Tosin Olokun, ALGON Chairman and Yagba West LGA boss, praised the governor’s swift response, stating, “We can finally sleep peacefully.”

The government also acknowledged Kwara State’s role, especially in providing logistical and intelligence support throughout the joint security exercise.

All suspects will face prosecution after investigations conclude. Authorities have pledged transparent trials and full application of Nigeria’s criminal law.

The government affirmed its ongoing collaboration with federal security agencies to safeguard lives, dismantle criminal networks, and restore community peace.