Operatives from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) successfully thwarted an armed robbery attempt on the Kaduna-Zaria Highway in the early hours of Saturday, November 4. The incident unfolded around 3 a.m. when a group of suspected gunmen set up a roadblock and began attacking motorists.

According to a senior NDLEA official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information, the agency's operatives responded to a distress call from a motorist who managed to escape the attackers. This prompt response allowed the NDLEA to confront the armed men before they could carry out further assaults or kidnappings.

The official stated, "Our men responded immediately after receiving the distress call. They engaged the armed men in a gun duel and successfully repelled the attack." Fortunately, no victims were kidnapped during the incident, as the swift action of the operatives forced the robbers to abandon their operation and flee the scene.

Video footage that surfaced on social media shortly after the incident shows numerous vehicles and articulated trucks left abandoned along the highway. Some of these vehicles were still running, indicating a hasty departure by their drivers and passengers. NDLEA operatives were seen patrolling the area, inspecting the abandoned vehicles, and collecting belongings left behind by the fleeing suspects.

In one part of the video, an NDLEA officer, speaking in Hausa, confirmed that the robbers had fled, emphasizing, "They have fled. Look at these people’s belongings." Another officer was observed directing his colleagues to gather the abandoned items and load them for recovery.

As of the time of reporting, efforts to obtain further comments from the Kaduna State NDLEA Public Relations Officer, Sani Garba, were unsuccessful, as he promised to provide more details after making inquiries. Attempts to reach the Kaduna State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, also did not yield results, as he could not be contacted by phone.

This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges on major highways in Nigeria, where armed robbery and kidnapping have become increasingly prevalent. The NDLEA's quick response is a reminder of the critical role law enforcement agencies play in maintaining safety on the roads.