A tragic incident occurred on Sunday in Niger State when suspected kidnappers fatally shot a driver, identified as Emeka, and abducted five passengers traveling from Kebbi State to Asaba, Delta State. The ambush happened between Kwana-Barau and Kundu village, where the assailants attacked a Toyota vehicle with registration number LND 863 YF. Emeka was killed on the spot, and four passengers were taken hostage.

In response, the Niger State Police Command confirmed on Monday that a joint tactical team was swiftly deployed, resulting in the rescue of four of the abducted passengers. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the fifth person still in captivity.

In a related incident, the Niger State Police also reported the successful rescue of 19 passengers abducted on November 1 while traveling from Sokoto to Bayelsa. The passengers, who were intercepted along the Tegina-Zungeru road and taken into a forest, were rescued through coordinated operations by security forces.

According to Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, the tactical team initially rescued twelve of the victims on November 2 from the Pangugari forest in Rafi Local Government Area, followed by the remaining seven later that day. The victims were provided with medical care and safely returned to Sokoto on November 3.

These incidents underscore the ongoing security challenges in Niger State, with authorities intensifying efforts to curb the menace of kidnappings and ensure safe passage for travelers.