The Vigilante Group of Nigeria Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Federal Capital Territory Command, has rescued 13 kidnap victims in the Egume area of Anyigba, Kogi State.
The victims were reportedly abducted on April 26, 2026, while travelling from Calabar to Abuja for a programme.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commander of the VGN Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Idris Girinya, the rescue operation was carried out around 4 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
Girinya disclosed that the operation was led by Suleiman Abiodun, popularly known as “Evil Spirit,” with support from the Kogi State Command of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and the Nigeria Police Force.
“The victims were rescued after spending days in captivity following their abduction while travelling to Abuja from Calabar,” the statement said.
The rescued victims were identified as Pastor Victor Edet Okon, Mercy Victor Okon, Bassey Bassey Ekpenyong, Sarah Bassey Ekpenyong, Evangelist Perfect Bomba, Christian George, Mary God’s Will Asuquo, Mary Bassey Kanu, Rita Effiom, Maria Undie, Mary Joseph, Iboro Johnson, and Prosper Ebuara.
The command, however, did not state whether any suspects were arrested during the operation or if ransom was paid before the victims regained freedom.
The rescue comes amid growing concerns over increasing cases of kidnapping along highways and communities in Kogi State and other parts of the country.
Security agencies and local vigilante groups have continued to intensify efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes in affected areas.
Punch
