In a sustained operation to combat criminal activities in Kogi State, troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma, have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million ransom meant for their release.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi.
According to the statement, the rescue operation took place on November 2, 2025, following credible intelligence reports of kidnapping incidents along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis and information that relatives of some victims were attempting to deliver ransom to secure their release.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops launched a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the kidnappers.
The statement said however, while en route to the location, they came under fire from the armed criminals.
It said in the fierce exchange that followed, the soldiers overpowered the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to flee into the forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
The statement said two kidnapped victims and the ransom sum of ₦3,800,000 were recovered during the operation.
It added that the rescued victims were immediately debriefed to assist ongoing investigations, while the recovered money was returned to them.
According to the statement, the rescued victims are currently in safe custody with the troops, pending their formal handover to the relevant authorities.
Lieutenant Abdullahi reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Kogi State and across the country.
He also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that would enhance the fight against crime and other acts of insecurity.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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