A driver named Emeka was fatally shot by suspected kidnappers on Sunday during an attack on a vehicle traveling from Kebbi State to Asaba, Delta State. The incident took place between Kwana-Barau and Kundu village in Niger State, where the assailants reportedly stopped the Toyota vehicle (registration number LND 863 YF), killed the driver, and abducted five passengers.
Niger State Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the tragic event, noting that a joint security team was deployed immediately, leading to the rescue of four of the five abducted passengers, who were found unharmed. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining captive.
In a separate incident, the police also rescued 19 passengers who had been kidnapped on November 1, 2024, while traveling from Sokoto to Bayelsa. The kidnappers had intercepted the Toyota Bus (registration number LG 08 DGS) along the Tegina-Zungeru road in Niger State, taking the passengers into a nearby forest.
A swift response from joint security forces resulted in the safe recovery of 12 of the victims on November 2 in the Pangugari forest, with the remaining seven rescued later that evening, bringing all 19 passengers to safety. After receiving medical care, the rescued individuals were returned to Sokoto on November 3.
Both incidents highlight the ongoing efforts by security forces to address the surge in kidnappings on Nigeria’s roads, with operations aimed at ensuring the safety of travelers in high-risk areas.
