Troops from the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have rescued two kidnapped victims in Kogi State and recovered the ransom money paid for their release.
The operation on 2 November was launched from the Forward Operating Base in Oguma after the military received credible intelligence about kidnapping on the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule road and reports that a ransom was to be delivered.
While on their way to intercept the criminals in Achigili Forest, the soldiers were fired upon by the bandits. An exchange of fire followed, during which the troops forced the kidnappers to retreat. “The gallant soldiers engaged the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon two victims along with the ransom money,” the army stated. The armed group fled into the forest, believed to be suffering from gunshot wounds.
After the confrontation, the soldiers secured the two individuals and recovered the sum of ₦3,800,000. The army confirmed that “the rescued victims were immediately debriefed to aid further operations, while the recovered cash was handed back to them.”
The victims remain in the protective custody of the troops pending a formal handover to the authorities.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, on 2 November 2025, the army reiterated its commitment to its mission.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to protect lives and property,” the statement read. It ended with an appeal, noting that “members of the public are therefore enjoined to continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information.”
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