In a sustained effort to eliminate criminal activities in Kogi State, troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma, Kogi State, have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3,800,000 in ransom money meant for their release.
In a statement by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, the operation took place on 2 November 2025, following credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis. Reports indicated that relatives of some victims were preparing to deliver ransom payments to secure their release. Acting swiftly on the information, troops launched a decisive patrol toward Achigili Forest to intercept the criminals.
While en route to the location, the troops came under fire from the kidnappers. In the ensuing gun duel, the gallant soldiers engaged the criminals with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon two victims and the ransom money before fleeing into the forest with gunshot wounds.
Following the encounter, the rescued victims were debriefed to assist ongoing investigations, while the recovered ransom — totaling ₦3,800,000 (three million, eight hundred thousand naira) — was returned to them. The victims are currently safe in the custody of the troops pending formal handover to the appropriate authorities.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, emphasizing that operations of this nature will continue until criminal networks are dismantled. The Army further appealed to residents of Kogi State to provide timely and credible information to aid security forces in their ongoing efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region.
