Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered N3.8 million intended as ransom during a daring operation in Kogi State. The rescue, carried out on November 2, 2025, underscores the military’s ongoing commitment to combating the growing menace of kidnapping in the region.
According to a statement posted on the Army’s official Facebook page, the operation was conducted by soldiers of the 12 Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma. The troops received credible intelligence regarding kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis, including reports that relatives of some victims were on their way to deliver ransom payments.
“Troops acted swiftly on the information and projected a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits,” the statement read. The soldiers moved quickly to prevent the kidnappers from completing their ransom demands, a step that proved crucial in saving the victims’ lives.
However, the operation was not without challenges. While approaching the location, the troops reportedly came under gunfire from the kidnappers. In the ensuing exchange, the gallant soldiers engaged the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon both the two victims and the ransom money. The criminals reportedly fled into the forest, sustaining gunshot wounds in the process.
The Army confirmed that the rescued victims were promptly debriefed to provide vital information that could aid further investigations. The N3,800,000 intended for ransom payment was recovered and handed back to the victims, who are now in safe custody pending formal handover to the appropriate authorities.
Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, who signed the statement, commended the troops for their bravery and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information to help combat criminal activities. “Information from civilians remains one of our most important tools in preventing kidnappings and securing the safety of residents,” he said.
Kidnapping has become a growing security concern in Kogi State, particularly along major highways and forested areas. In recent months, several abductions for ransom have been reported, causing fear and panic among residents. Security agencies have intensified patrols and surveillance in response, but public cooperation remains critical to curbing these crimes.
The recent operation highlights the effectiveness of coordinated military intelligence and swift action in tackling kidnappers. Analysts note that proactive interventions like the Achigili Forest operation not only save lives but also serve as a deterrent to criminals, sending a strong message that the military is prepared to act decisively against lawlessness.
Residents and community leaders in Kogi have welcomed the successful rescue, calling it a “relief” and urging security forces to maintain their vigilance. They also appealed to travellers and families to remain cautious while commuting along high-risk routes and to report any suspicious activities to security agencies immediately.
With the rescued victims now safe and the ransom recovered, the Nigerian Army has demonstrated that timely intelligence, courage, and strategic operations can effectively counter kidnapping threats, restoring hope to vulnerable communities across the state.
