The Nigerian military has announced foiling an attempt by kidnappers to seize a bus load of passengers on the Abuja-Kaduna Express Way.
Coordinator of the Defence Media Operations, Major General John Enenche said in a statement that the operation was carried out by troops of Operation Thunder Strike.
He said the failed kidnap attempt took place between Olams and Alheri camp along the Abuja-Kaduna highway.
He said the troops engaged the bandits with effective firepower which overwhelmed them, forcing them to flee into the forest in disarray.
He added that the passengers in the targeted vehicle, a Toyota Hiace Bus with registration number Lagos MUS-944FR travelling from Abuja to Kaduna, managed to escape in various directions into the surrounding bushes during the encounter.
The coordinator added that the troops pursued the bandits deep into the forest in an aggressive posture, and inflicted fatal injuries on them as well as ensure the recovery of all the passengers, who escaped into the bush during the encounter.
He further disclosed that the troops were currently exploiting the general area in search of the fleeing bandits with express orders to bring them into custody with an aggressive patrols along the axis.
“Consequently, the Military High Command commends troops of Operation Thunder Strike for their vigilance and professionalism exhibited during this operation.
“The troops are further encouraged to remain resolute in curtailing the activities of armed bandits along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway.
“The general public is hereby reassured of their safety while travelling along the Abuja-Kaduna corridor and indeed along all other highways across the country,” he said. (NAN)