The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the death of one person following a foiled kidnap attempt along the Obajana-Oshokoshoko road.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, police spokesperson Williams Ovye-Aya said operatives from the Obajana Division thwarted the abduction attempt on June 23, following an ambush by suspected kidnappers who opened fire on a vehicle transporting passengers.
“The police patrol team responded swiftly to the sporadic gunfire, engaging the attackers in a gun battle that forced them to flee.
All the passengers were rescued, though six sustained injuries. Sadly, one later died while receiving medical attention,” Mr Ovye-Aya said.
In a separate operation on June 21, the command arrested two suspects in Ayingba for unlawful possession of firearms and recovered a locally made pistol, live cartridges, and suspected Indian hemp.
Also, on June 22, operatives from the Okene Division intercepted a Nissan vehicle carrying five passengers en route to Auchi. During a search, one of the passengers escaped, abandoning a bag that contained a sub-machine gun, live ammunition, and other suspicious items.
Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye assured residents of the command’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.