Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Oguma, have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million ransom in a daring operation that disrupted a kidnap ring in Kogi State.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, November 2, followed credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis, and reports that relatives of some victims were attempting to deliver ransom to secure their release.
Brigade spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement issued Monday in Lokoja, noting that troops swiftly launched a coordinated patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the kidnappers.
“While en route to the location, the troops came under fire from the criminals,” Abdullahi said. “In the ensuing exchange, the soldiers overpowered the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon two victims along with the ransom money before fleeing into the forest with gunshot wounds.”
He said the troops successfully rescued the victims and recovered ₦3.8 million that was meant to be paid as ransom.
“The rescued victims were debriefed to aid further operations, while the recovered cash was returned to them. They are currently in safe custody pending handover to the appropriate authorities,” he added.
Lt. Abdullahi reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to protect lives and property in Kogi and beyond, urging residents to support the military by providing credible intelligence to help track criminal elements.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in ensuring peace and security. We urge members of the public to continue to provide timely information that will help us succeed in the fight against crime,” he said.