Police Rescue 15 Kidnap Victims, Recover Weapons In Seven-State Operations

The Nigeria Police Force says its operatives rescued 15 kidnap victims, foiled a bandit attack and arrested several suspects in a series of operations across seven states.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the operational successes were recorded between 9 and 10 August 2026 in Kogi, Benue, Bayelsa, Enugu, Ekiti, Ondo and Lagos states.

In Kogi State, police-led security operatives rescued 15 people abducted by suspected kidnappers following an intelligence-led operation and extensive bush combing.

The operatives reportedly engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, neutralising some of the attackers while others fled with gunshot injuries.

The rescued victims were debriefed and reunited with their families.

In Benue State, police tactical operatives responding to an attack by armed bandits in Tse Udi Community, Tombo Council Ward, engaged the attackers in a gun battle.

One suspected bandit was neutralised while others escaped into the forest. Police recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with 17 rounds of live ammunition.

In Bayelsa, police arrested a suspect over the fatal shooting of a man at Inburutoru, Nembe. A double-barrel gun and an empty cartridge were recovered.

Meanwhile, police detectives in Enugu State arrested a suspected armed robber at a hotel in Udenu Local Government Area following information about a suspicious lodger.

A locally made pistol and a live cartridge were recovered. The suspect reportedly confessed to belonging to a robbery gang, with efforts ongoing to arrest other members.

In Ekiti State, four suspected cultists were arrested in Efon-Alaaye. Police recovered a locally made pistol, axes, cutlasses and knives during a search of one of the suspects’ residences.

In Ondo State, detectives arrested a suspect allegedly attempting to sell a stolen Mercedes-Benz GLK in Kajola.

Police said the suspect confessed during interrogation to stealing the vehicle from his employer in Lagos.

In Lagos State, police operatives and firefighters responded to a fire outbreak at Itire, where a residential bungalow was consumed by fire.

The blaze was brought under control and no casualty was recorded.

The Force said the various cases remain under investigation by the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs).

The police urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property.