By Friday Temitope Eugenia | National News

The Nigerian Army has rescued nine people abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Ajaokuta–Itobe Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The victims were rescued after troops deployed at Patrol Base Itobe responded swiftly to reports of an attack on commuters along the highway.

The Army, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said troops arrived at the scene and found a Toyota Hiace bus and a Toyota Sienna vehicle abandoned by the roadside, while the occupants had been taken away.

The troops subsequently launched a pursuit operation, following the route reportedly taken by the fleeing kidnappers towards the outskirts of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area.

According to the Army, the troops engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing the assailants to abandon their captives and escape into the surrounding bush.

The military said some of the fleeing criminals were believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.

Nine victims were rescued in the operation, comprising two elderly men, two elderly women, four other adult males and an infant.

The rescued victims were immediately evacuated to safety before being handed over to the Nigeria Police, Itobe Area Command, for further necessary action and reunification with their families.

The Army said its troops had continued the pursuit of the fleeing kidnappers, while coordinated search operations were ongoing to rescue any other victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

It urged residents and other members of the public to provide timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in responding promptly to criminal activities.

The Army also reaffirmed its commitment, in collaboration with other security agencies, to protecting lives and property across the country.