Abuja, Nigeria – 3 November 2025 – In a decisive operation against criminal elements, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have successfully rescued two kidnapped individuals and recovered a substantial ransom payment in Kogi State.
The rescue took place on 2 November 2025, following intelligence reports of kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis. Relatives of the victims had been attempting to deliver the ransom to secure their release when the army intervened.
Deployed from Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma, the soldiers swiftly moved to intercept the bandits in Achigili Forest. En route, the troops encountered gunfire from the criminals, leading to an intense exchange. The army’s superior firepower overwhelmed the assailants, who abandoned the two victims and the ransom before fleeing into the forest, many sustaining gunshot wounds.
The operation resulted in the recovery of ₦3,800,000 (three million, eight hundred thousand naira), which was immediately returned to the victims after they were rescued. The individuals were debriefed to gather further intelligence and are currently in safe custody at the troops’ location, awaiting handover to the appropriate authorities.
In a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), the Nigerian Army emphasised its commitment to eradicating crime in the region. “The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to protect lives and property,” the post read. It urged the public to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information.
Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 12 Brigade, signed the statement, highlighting the brigade’s ongoing efforts to maintain peace in Kogi State.
This incident underscores the persistent challenge of kidnapping in parts of Nigeria, where security forces continue to mount operations to safeguard communities. Authorities have not yet released further details on the identities of the victims or the bandits involved.
