Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have successfully rescued two abducted victims and recovered ₦3.8 million in ransom money during a daring operation in Kogi State.
The military raid, conducted on Saturday, November 2, followed credible intelligence reports about ongoing kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis.
According to security sources, the operation was initiated after information surfaced that families of the victims were attempting to pay ransom to secure their loved ones’ release.
Acting swiftly on the tip-off, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Oguma advanced toward the Achigili Forest, believed to be a notorious hideout for criminal gangs in the region.
However, while en route, the soldiers came under heavy gunfire from the kidnappers.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, said the troops responded decisively with superior firepower, forcing the kidnappers to flee into the dense forest with possible gunshot wounds.
“The troops acted on time and fought courageously despite the ambush,” Abdullahi explained.
“Their swift response not only saved the victims but also disrupted the criminals’ ransom exchange plan.”
He further revealed that two victims were rescued unharmed, while the ₦3.8 million meant as ransom payment was recovered at the scene.
The victims were immediately debriefed to assist in further intelligence gathering.
“The rescued persons are in stable condition and are being kept in safe custody pending their handover to the appropriate authorities,” Abdullahi added.
Military officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security across Kogi and surrounding states, stressing that such operations would continue until criminal elements are completely flushed out.
Security analysts have also praised the military’s proactive efforts.
“This operation shows the growing efficiency of the army in gathering and acting on intelligence,” said one local security expert in Lokoja. “It’s a strong signal that kidnapping syndicates are running out of safe zones.”
The Nigerian Army urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to aid the ongoing fight against insecurity in the region.