The Nigerian Army has rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million ransom money following a fierce gun battle with armed criminals along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis in Kogi State.
This was confirmed in a statement by the 12 Brigade spokesperson, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, on Monday in Lokoja.
According to the statement, troops from the 12 Brigade stationed at the Forward Operating Base, Oguma, carried out the operation on Sunday, November 2, 2025, after receiving credible intelligence on kidnapping activities in the area and reports that relatives were attempting to deliver ransom to secure the release of their loved ones.
Abdullahi said the soldiers moved to Achigili Forest to intercept the kidnappers but came under fire from the criminals. The troops responded swiftly with superior firepower, forcing the kidnappers to flee into the forest with gunshot wounds, abandoning two victims and the ransom money.
The troops successfully rescued the victims and recovered ₦3,800,000 meant for ransom payment. The victims were later debriefed to aid further investigation, and the recovered money was returned to them. They are currently safe with the military and will soon be handed over to the appropriate authorities.
Lieutenant Abdullahi reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to aid the fight against criminal activities in the state.
