Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have rescued three passengers injured during a suspected kidnapping attack along the Jos–Makarfi highway in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The incident occurred at about 1:00 a.m. on Thursday, when suspected kidnappers reportedly blocked the highway and opened sporadic gunfire at motorists.
Troops responding to the distress call arrived at the scene and discovered a commercial bus, with registration number EPE-840XB, which had been intercepted by the attackers.
The bus was reportedly driven by one Baba Ruwa, an indigene of Oyo State.
The suspected kidnappers fled after sighting the approaching troops, enabling the soldiers to rescue three passengers who had sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.
The rescued victims were immediately evacuated to the Primary Health Centre, Riyom, where they received medical attention.
However, further questioning of the victims revealed that the attackers had abducted two other passengers identified as Mrs Precious and Mrs Esther.
READ ALSO: Troops Nab Suspected Kidnapper, Rescue Victim In Benue, Nasarawa
Following the revelation, security forces launched an operation to track the fleeing kidnappers and secure the release of the two abducted passengers.
The attack has heightened concerns over the activities of criminal elements operating along major highways in parts of Plateau State, particularly those exploiting difficult terrain and locally fabricated firearms to carry out ambushes and kidnappings.
Security sources have also raised concerns over the alleged involvement of some local militia elements in kidnapping-for-ransom activities in parts of the state.
According to the sources, the proliferation of locally fabricated firearms has increased the capacity of criminal groups to mount road ambushes, intimidate communities and target unsuspecting travellers.
The development has further complicated security operations, as some of the suspected criminals are believed to have detailed knowledge of the terrain and local communities, which they allegedly exploit to evade security forces after attacks.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army have intensified efforts to identify and dismantle the criminal networks behind the attacks, recover illegal weapons and prevent further abductions of motorists and residents.
The latest incident underscores the continuing security challenges along major highways in Plateau State and the need for sustained patrols and rapid response operations to protect travellers and communities.