The police command in Kogi has confirmed the death of one passenger in a foiled attempt to abduct passengers along the Obajana-Oshokoshoko road in the state.

A statement on Tuesday by Williams Ovye-Aya, the command’s spokesman, said the operation was part of a series of bold operations carried out in the command.

Mr Ovye-Aya said on June 23, the Obajana Division operatives foiled the attempted abduction of passengers along the Obajana-Oshokoshoko road.

“The police patrol team responded promptly to sporadic gunfire and engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel, forcing them to flee. All passengers were successfully rescued, but six sustained injuries and one later died while receiving treatment,” he said.

He further stated that, in a separate incident, the command arrested two suspects in Ayingba for possession of firearms and recovered several exhibits on June 21.

He said the two arrested suspects were found in possession of a locally made pistol, live cartridges, and suspected Indian hemp.

Again, he disclosed that on June 22, operatives of the Okene Division intercepted a Nissan vehicle with five passengers heading towards Auchi.

He added that during a search, one passenger escaped, leaving behind a bag containing a sub-machine gun rifle, live ammunition, and other exhibits.

Police commissioner Miller Dantawaye reassured residents of the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Benue.

(NAN)