Kidnappers have struck once again, targeting passengers aboard two buses bound for Abuja along the Inele-Eteke, Ogugu, New Road area of Kogi East district. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has sent shockwaves through the region and raised concerns about the safety of travelers in the area.
According to a source who spoke to Channels Television, the abduction involved buses operated by GIG and ABC, both en route to Abuja from the eastern part of the country. The GIG bus, which departed from Umuahia in Abia State at 7:30 am on Saturday, was reportedly intercepted by the gunmen during its journey.
Following the abduction, GIG swiftly engaged security services in a bid to track down the abducted passengers, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated efforts to secure their safe return.
In response to the incident, the Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the abduction, with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the area leading local vigilantes and hunters in a rescue mission. While one of the drivers was reportedly rescued by security operatives, concerns remain for the safety and well-being of the passengers still in captivity.
Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Bethrand Onuoha, has taken decisive action by deploying additional Tactical Squads to the area, consisting of Quick Response Units, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Units, and conventional police personnel. This deployment underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to ensure the swift and safe rescue of all victims.
This abduction adds to the alarming trend of kidnapping incidents that have plagued various parts of the country in recent weeks, despite efforts by security agencies and government assurances. From the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Ekiti State to the murder of monarchs in the same region, and the mass kidnapping in Katsina State, the security situation remains dire.
In response to the escalating insecurity, security consultant Captain Umar Aliyu (Rtd) has called for a robust and decisive approach to dealing with perpetrators of crime, particularly bandits. Aliyu emphasized the need for governments to communicate in the language understood by these criminal elements, stressing that dialogue alone may be perceived as a sign of weakness.
