In a coordinated counter–kidnapping operation, troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Oguma Local Vigilante, have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million ransom in Kogi State.
The operation, carried out on 2 November 2025, followed credible intelligence reports of kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis and an attempt by relatives of the victims to deliver ransom for their release. Acting swiftly, the troops launched a patrol towards Achigili Forest, where the kidnappers were reportedly holding the victims.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, the troops came under fire from the criminals while advancing to the location. In the ensuing gun duel, the soldiers overpowered the kidnappers with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the captives and flee into the forest with gunshot wounds.
The troops rescued the victims unhurt and recovered ₦3,800,000 — the ransom money meant for their release. The victims were immediately debriefed to support further investigations, while the recovered money was returned to them. They are currently in safe custody pending formal handover to the appropriate authorities.
Lieutenant Abdullahi reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing that security operations in the state would be intensified.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting the military and other security agencies with timely and credible information to help stamp out criminal activities across Kogi State.
