Rescue Mission: Police Save 23 Kidnapped Victims, Driver Fatally Shot In Niger 5th November 2024

A driver named Emeka was tragically killed by suspected kidnappers who abducted five passengers during their journey from Kebbi State to Asaba, Delta State. This incident took place on Sunday between Kwana-Barau and Kundu village in Niger State…CONTINUE READING

According to Ireporteronline, the kidnappers attacked the vehicle—a Toyota with registration number LND 863 YF—fatally shooting Emeka before taking four passengers hostage.

In a separate operation, the Niger State Police Command announced the successful rescue of 19 passengers who had been kidnapped while traveling from Sokoto to Bayelsa. These passengers were ambushed by kidnappers on November 1, 2024, while traveling in a Toyota bus with registration number LG 08 DGS along the Tegina-Zungeru road, before being taken into a nearby forest.

Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, confirmed both incidents in a statement on Monday, noting that all rescued victims were unharmed.

“On November 3, 2024, at approximately 6 a.m., it was reported that suspected kidnappers targeted a vehicle with registration number LND 863 YF traveling from Yawuri in Kebbi State to Asaba, Delta State. The incident occurred between Kwana-Barau and Kundu village, resulting in the abduction of five individuals and the unfortunate death of driver Emeka,” Abiodun stated.

He explained that a joint security tactical team responded quickly, conducting search operations in the Kattako forest in Rafi Local Government Area. “Four of the abducted passengers were rescued unharmed, and efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victim still in captivity,” he added.

Regarding the group of 19 passengers who were abducted during their Sokoto-Bayelsa journey, Abiodun reported that intensified pressure from security forces led to their safe rescue. “Following the November 1 attack, security operatives pursued the kidnappers, resulting in the recovery of twelve victims on November 2 in the Pangugari forest, Rafi LGA,” he noted.

Subsequent operations later that evening led to the rescue of the remaining seven victims, bringing the total number of rescued individuals to 19. “The victims received medical attention at a nearby clinic and were safely returned to Sokoto on November 3,” Abiodun disclosed.