Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims, Recover N3.8M Ransom in Kogi
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered a substantial ransom payment following a fierce gun battle in Kogi State on Saturday, November 2, 2025
The operation, spearheaded by troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma, marks a continuous effort to clear the state of banditry and kidnapping.
The military acted on credible intelligence regarding ongoing kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis. The operation was triggered by reports that relatives were en route to deliver a ransom to secure the release of their loved ones.
“Troops acted swiftly on the information and projected a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits,” stated Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations for 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, in a release dated November 2, 2025.
Gun Battle Leads to Rescue
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While advancing towards the suspected location, the troops came under heavy fire from the criminals. The gallant soldiers responded with superior firepower, engaging the bandits and forcing them to abandon the two victims and the ransom money
The criminal gang subsequently fled into the dense forest, with many believed to have sustained various degrees of gunshot wounds.
Following the encounter, the troops rescued the victims and successfully recovered the sum of N3,800,000 (three million, eight hundred thousand naira) intended for the ransom payment.
The rescued individuals were immediately debriefed to gather information that will assist in future operations. Crucially, the recovered cash was handed back to them.
The victims are currently in safe custody at the troops’ location and are awaiting handover to the appropriate civil authorities.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens. Lieutenant Abdullahi called on the public to maintain support for the military and other security agencies.
“Members of the public are therefore enjoined 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,” the statement concluded.
