Army, police comb Kogi forests for kidnapped victims, suspects

Security forces in Nigeria's Kogi State are intensifying efforts to locate victims of a recent kidnapping incident. The Kogi State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, has deployed tactical teams and drones to comb forests suspected of harboring criminal hideouts along the Okene-Auchi Road. The operation, which began immediately after the incident, focuses on forest areas within the Okene-Ajokuta axis, including Ebiya Forest. Personnel from various police units, including the Mobile Force and Anti-Kidnapping Unit, are involved, supported by the Nigerian Army and the Edo State Police Command. Joint operations extend to the Kogi-Edo border to prevent escape routes. During the search, security teams discovered and destroyed several suspected hideouts, recovering items such as food, a jungle hat, and a national identity card. While no kidnapped victims were found in the initial phase, the operation continues with forces advancing into deeper forest areas. Drones are being used to enhance surveillance and intelligence gathering. The Commissioner of Police has urged operational teams to maintain their determined effort to rescue victims and apprehend perpetrators.

“

Immediately following the incident, the Command activated its rescue response and commenced intelligence-driven bush-combing operations across identified forest corridors within the Okene–Ajokuta axis, particularly around the Ebiya Forest and adjoining areas.