By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, operating in synergy with Hybrid Forces and local vigilantes, have successfully rescued 17 kidnapped victims, including 13 adults and 4 children, in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The rescue followed a swift operation on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, after troops deployed at Patrol Base Apata received credible intelligence of a kidnap incident at Opamaru Village along the Obajana–Lokoja Road. The victims, who were travelling from Osun State to Abuja in a 17-seater bus, were intercepted by criminals before the intervention of security forces.
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, confirmed the operation in a statement, explaining that on arrival at the scene, troops found the empty vehicle abandoned by the roadside. The soldiers, supported by the Brigade Quick Response Group (QRG), immediately pursued the kidnappers, trailing their footprints to Wuro Village in Adavi Local Government Area.
According to the Army spokesperson, the criminals were engaged in a firefight but were overpowered by the troops’ superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the kidnapped passengers and escape into the forest with gunshot injuries. All 17 victims were rescued unhurt and taken to the 12 Brigade Medical Centre for first aid and stabilization.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to rid Kogi State and surrounding areas of criminal elements and assured citizens of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property. It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations.
