In a swift joint operation, Nigerian Army troops, working alongside the police and local vigilante groups, successfully rescued eight abducted commuters on the Okene–Auchi Highway in Kogi State

The abduction occurred on Friday at Tyre Village in Okene Local Government Area, when nine gunmen disguised in military camouflage ambushed a Toyota Hiace bus operated by Big Joe Ventures Ltd, with registration number FUG 13 XY.

The bus was reportedly traveling from Abuja to Benin City, Edo State, with 12 passengers on board when it was intercepted.

The attackers forcefully led the passengers into the nearby bush.

Responding swiftly to distress calls, troops and local vigilantes launched a coordinated operation, engaging the abductors in a firefight.

During the confrontation, security forces recovered ammunition and successfully rescued eight individuals, including the bus driver, all unharmed.

A source familiar with the rescue confirmed that efforts are still ongoing to locate and free the remaining four passengers still held captive.

Security operatives are said to be combing the surrounding forest in search of the kidnappers and their victims.

The incident highlights the growing security challenges on major highways, as well as the importance of rapid response and collaboration between security agencies and local communities.