Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt Near Zuma Rock, Rescue Two Victims

Nigerian troops stationed at a checkpoint near Zuma Barracks in Niger State successfully thwarted a kidnap attempt in the early hours of Wednesday, rescuing two victims during a fierce exchange of gunfire with suspected bandits.

According to a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, who disclosed the incident on his X handle on Thursday, the attempted abduction occurred around 5:30 a.m. behind Zuma Rock, near Chachi village in the Tafa Local Government Area.

Responding to reports of sporadic gunshots, troops swiftly arrived at the scene and discovered a black 2008 Honda Accord, bearing registration number KUR 395 AA, abandoned in a pit with gunshot holes visible on its front doors.

The soldiers engaged the armed attackers in a shootout, ultimately repelling the assault and rescuing the car’s occupants.

The victims, identified as Samson Audu of Bakusa, Dei-Dei, and his girlfriend, Joy Bassey, sustained injuries during the encounter. Audu was shot in the right hand, while Bassey suffered a head injury.

Both victims were promptly taken to Right Care Hospital in Dakwa, where they are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

Security operations in the area have been intensified following the incident, as authorities continue efforts to ensure safety along the Abuja-Kaduna corridor.