By Jimoh Gabriel 

A joint security team comprising local vigilantes, the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force has rescued two persons abducted during an attack on a relaxation centre in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The victims, identified as a bar manager and a sales girl, were reportedly rescued unharmed on Tuesday during an operation in Yagba West.

Two workers abducted during a weekend attack on a relaxation centre in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State have regained their freedom following a joint rescue operation involving local vigilantes and security agencies.

The victims, a bar manager and a sales girl at Aluta Bar Relaxation in Oke-Ijumu, Ikoyi, were reportedly kidnapped by armed bandits during an attack on the facility on Saturday night, June 6, 2026.

According to sources familiar with the operation, the victims were rescued on Tuesday, June 9, when a combined team of Ogbe Vigilantes, Irele-Ekiti Vigilantes, personnel of the Nigerian Army and officers of the Nigeria Police Force intercepted the kidnappers in Yagba West Local Government Area.

The sources said the abductors were moving the victims toward a suspected hideout when security operatives engaged them.

During the operation, several of the suspected bandits were reportedly killed, while others escaped with injuries. The exact number of casualties has not been officially confirmed.

The rescued victims were said to be unharmed and have since been reunited with security personnel for further procedures.

Residents of the area have praised the swift response and collaboration among local vigilante groups and formal security agencies, describing the operation as a significant success in efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime in the region.

Security operatives are reportedly continuing efforts to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspects while strengthening surveillance across affected communities.

Authorities had not issued a detailed official statement at the time of filing this report.