The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the safe release of passengers kidnapped by armed bandits along the Kontagora–Zuru road in Mariga Local Government Area.
In an update on Sunday, the command announced that the victims, abducted on Saturday evening, were freed unharmed due to relentless pressure from security operatives.
The police, alongside other forces, mounted a sustained pursuit of the bandits, forcing them to abandon their captives.
“The victims were released unhurt following sustained pursuit of the hoodlums by security operatives,” the command stated.
The incident began when a Toyota Corolla carrying passengers from Kontagora to Zuru was ambushed at Gulbin-Boka village. The armed bandits intercepted the vehicle, taking the occupants hostage in the attack.
However, the quick response of security forces disrupted the criminals’ plans, leading to the victims’ release.
Efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects remain ongoing, with the police vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. “Efforts are ongoing to track and arrest the fleeing suspects,” the command added.