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 money during an operation in Kogi State.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, the operation took place on November 2, 2025, following credible intelligence reports on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis. The troops received information that relatives of some abducted victims were attempting to deliver ransom payments to secure their release.
Acting swiftly, the soldiers launched a patrol towards Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits. However, while en route to the location, the troops came under heavy fire from the criminals. A fierce gun duel ensued, during which the bandits were overpowered by the troops’ superior firepower. The kidnappers were forced to abandon two victims and the ransom money before fleeing into the forest with gunshot wounds.
The soldiers successfully rescued the hostages and recovered ₦3,800,000 — the amount intended as ransom. The victims were immediately debriefed to support ongoing investigations, while the recovered cash was returned to them. Both victims are now safe and in military custody pending formal handover to the appropriate authorities.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security in Kogi State and across the country. It also urged residents to continue supporting military operations by providing timely and credible information that could aid in the fight against criminal elements.
