Nigerian Forces Rescue Two Kidnap Victims, Recover ₦3.8 Million Ransom In Kogi -

 

Nigerian Forces Rescue Two Kidnap Victims, Recover ₦3.8 Million Ransom In Kogi by Editorialtimes: 7:03am

Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims, Recover ₦3.8 Million Ransom in Kogi — The Bureau News Nigeria News Today

By Enemona Samuel Endurance | The Bureau News

Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered a ransom sum of ₦3.8 million during a counter-kidnapping operation in Kogi State.

In a statement on Monday, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the brigade, said the operation was conducted on Sunday by soldiers deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Oguma.

Troops Acted on Intelligence, Intercepted Kidnappers in Achigili Forest

According to Abdullahi, the mission followed actionable intelligence reports about kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis of the state. He said troops intercepted the kidnappers in Achigili forest while responding to reports that the victims’ relatives were about to deliver ransom money to the abductors.

“In a sustained effort to rid Kogi State of criminal activities, troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at Forward Operating Base Oguma have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered the ransom money meant for their release,” Abdullahi said.

Gun Battle Ensued, Victims Freed Unharmed

During the encounter, the troops reportedly came under heavy gunfire but engaged the kidnappers in a fierce firefight. Overpowered by the superior firepower of the soldiers, the abductors fled into the forest with gunshot wounds, abandoning the two victims at the scene.

The army spokesman said the troops immediately rescued the victims and recovered the ₦3,800,000 ransom that had been prepared for payment. The victims were debriefed afterward to assist in ongoing investigations and security operations.

Army Commends Residents for Cooperation

Abdullahi commended the support of local residents who provided timely information that led to the success of the mission, urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue assisting security forces in efforts to combat crime and kidnapping across Kogi State.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to restoring peace and security across the North Central region. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious movements or persons to the nearest security agency,” he added.

The Bureau News recalls that security agencies have intensified coordinated operations in Kogi in recent months following increased cases of abductions along key highways and riverine communities in the state.