Hunters Apprehend ‘Kidnappers’ In Kogi Forest

Local hunters have arrested three suspected kidnappers at their hideout near Ossra-Irekpeni communities along Okene-Lokoja-Abuja highway.

It was gathered that during the operation there was an exchange of gunfire between the hunters and the suspected kidnappers.

One of the hunters told Daily Trust that his colleagues alongside the chairman of Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi, Joseph Samuel Omuya, stormed the forest based on a tip-off, late Wednesday.

He stated that as they made way through the forest, the kidnappers opened fire promoting them to return fire.

“We immediately engaged them in shootout and three of the kidnappers were arrested,” he said.

While revealing that some kidnappers were able to escape with bullet wounds, the source said those apprehended have been handed over to security operatives in Lokoja, the state capital.

Confirming the arrest, Joseph Samuel Omuya said the kidnappers were among the gangs that have been terrorising residents and travellers along Okene-Lokoja-Abuja highway.

“One of the kidnappers have confessed about their mode of operation, the nature of sophisticated weapons they use, and listed the names of other gang members,” he said.

The local government chairman urged villagers residing in the area to be security-conscious and provide useful information to the appropriate security agents.