The Nigerian Navy has recorded significant operational successes in Kogi and Rivers States, rescuing 13 kidnapped victims and arresting six suspected drug peddlers in separate operations.
According to an official statement signed by the Director Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the 13 kidnap victims were rescued on August 10, 2026, along the Itobe–Anyigba Highway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The rescue operation was carried out by a joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes following a reported kidnapping incident along the highway.
The team encountered resistance from the suspected kidnappers during the operation. In the ensuing confrontation, one vigilante personnel was killed, while a police officer sustained a gunshot injury and was evacuated for medical attention.
The rescued victims were subsequently placed under the care of relevant security authorities for screening and necessary assistance, while intensified operations are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
In Rivers State, personnel of the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base Bonny, in collaboration with the NDLEA Bonny Area Command, arrested six suspected drug peddlers during an intelligence-driven operation at Amahausa, Bonny Local Government Area.
The operation also led to the seizure of assorted illicit substances, comprising 250 tablets of Exol 5, 117 wraps of Cannabis Sativa, 50 wraps of methamphetamine, 70 wraps of heroin, eight capsules of 100mg Tramadol, three packs of Cannabis Sativa and one methamphetamine pipe.
The Nigerian Navy said the two operations demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led action, rapid response and inter-agency collaboration in tackling criminal activities.
The Service further reaffirmed its commitment to denying criminal elements freedom of action, protecting lives and supporting broader national efforts to strengthen security across Nigerian communities and the maritime environment.
