Security forces and local vigilantes have successfully rescued three persons kidnapped by gunmen on the Lokoja-Abuja highway. 

The rescued trio, Chioma Anaghara, 31, Esiongwu Lilian Chidimma, 36, and Ibe Ugochi, 40, all from Imo State, were abducted alongside ten other victims last Thursday. 

Chairman of Kogi/Koto Local Government Area, Mr. Dauda Aliyu, who confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, May 29, attributed their release to the unwavering dedication of the security operatives. 

He further disclosed that one of the three victims, who was pregnant, suffered a miscarriage during the rescue operation. 

“Following the initial rescue of ten victims on Friday, as reported by Retired Commodore Jerry Omodara, the Security Adviser (SA) to Gov. Yahaya Bello, the recent development marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the region,” he said. 

“Despite their previous successful rescue mission on Friday, the security forces continued their relentless pursuit of the criminals responsible for these heinous acts,”

Aliyu emphasized that the administration of Governor Bello remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens. No victim will be left to suffer at the hands of criminal elements. The security operatives are determined to root out criminals from every corner of the state.

Furthermore, Aliyu expressed confidence in Governor Bello’s formidable security architecture, highlighting the government’s resolve to maintain this robust approach until the end of his tenure. The focus remains on sustaining the security achievements for the benefit and security of the people of Kogi State.

“While we celebrate the release of the victims, it is with a heavy heart that we report that one of the abducted victims, who happened to be pregnant, suffered a miscarriage during the rescue operation. She was taken to a nearby hospital in Gegu where she was treated and discharged,”