Kidnappers Flee After Military Engagement - Two Victims Rescued, ₦3.8 M Recovered in Kogi

In a daring Nigerian Army rescue operation in Kogi State, troops successfully freed two kidnapped victims and recovered N3.8 million that had been paid as ransom.

The operation, carried out by soldiers of the 12 Brigade at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Oguma, took place on November 2, 2025. According to a statement shared on the Army’s official Facebook page, the mission was launched after intelligence reports indicated that families of several abducted individuals were on their way to deliver ransom payments along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis.

Armed with this information, troops immediately projected a patrol toward Achigili Forest, where they encountered heavy gunfire from the kidnappers. The Army said the soldiers responded decisively, engaging the assailants with superior firepower.

“In the ensuing exchange, the gallant soldiers forced the bandits to flee, abandoning two captives and the ransom money,” the statement read.

Following the confrontation, the Nigerian Army rescue team retrieved N3.8 million meant for ransom payment and safely evacuated the victims. The abductors reportedly escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds.

The Army confirmed that the recovered funds were returned to the rescued victims, who also underwent debriefing to aid ongoing investigations. The victims are currently in safe custody, pending formal transfer to the relevant authorities.

The Army also renewed its appeal to residents, urging them to:

• Share credible intelligence that could help track criminal groups.

• Support ongoing military operations in Kogi State and beyond.

• Stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to nearby security formations.

In the Army’s words, citizens are encouraged to “continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid in the fight against criminal elements within the state.”