In a swift and coordinated operation, troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered the sum of ₦3.8 million in ransom money during a counter-kidnapping mission in Kogi State.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the operation took place on 2 November 2025 following credible intelligence on the activities of kidnappers operating along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis. The intelligence also revealed that relatives of some abducted persons were preparing to deliver ransom payments to the criminals in a bid to secure their release.
Acting swiftly on the information, the troops launched a tactical patrol into Achigili Forest, where the suspected bandits were believed to be holding their captives. However, the soldiers came under heavy gunfire from the criminals while advancing toward the location.
In a fierce exchange of fire, the gallant troops overpowered the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the victims and the ransom money as they fled into the forest with gunshot wounds.
Following the successful rescue, the soldiers safely evacuated the victims and recovered ₦3,800,000, which had been intended for ransom payment. The victims were immediately debriefed to aid ongoing operations, while the recovered cash was returned to them. They are currently in safe custody at the troops’ base pending formal handover to the appropriate authorities.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering resolve to protect lives and property across the country, noting that the operation once again demonstrates the military’s proactive approach to tackling criminal activities within Kogi State and its environs.
The statement further urged members of the public to continue supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with timely and credible information to help track and dismantle criminal networks across the region.
Lieutenant Abdullahi commended the troops for their courage and professionalism, assuring that the Nigerian Army would sustain its offensive operations against bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements threatening peace and stability in the area.
