Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million in ransom money during a successful operation in Kogi State.
According to a statement posted on the Army’s official social media pages, the operation was carried out on November 2, 2025, by troops of the 12 Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma.
The rescue followed credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis and reports that relatives of abducted persons were on their way to deliver ransom to the kidnappers.
“Troops acted swiftly on the information and projected a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits,” the Army said.
While en route to the location, the troops reportedly came under fire from the kidnappers. In the ensuing gun duel, the soldiers overpowered the criminals, who fled into the forest with gunshot wounds, abandoning two victims and the ransom money.
The statement added that the rescued victims were safely debriefed to assist in ongoing investigations, while the recovered ₦3.8 million was returned to them. They are currently under protection pending handover to relevant authorities.
Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, who signed the statement, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.
“We call on members of the public to continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid in the fight against criminal elements within the state,” Lt. Abdullahi said.
The Army further assured that troops will sustain aggressive patrols and clearance operations to rid Kogi and adjoining states of kidnappers and other violent criminals.
