Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million in ransom money during a daring operation in Kogi State. The rescue mission, carried out by soldiers of the 12 Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Oguma, took place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, along the notorious Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the successful operation followed credible intelligence on kidnapping activities and reports that relatives of some victims were preparing to pay ransom to secure their release. Acting swiftly, the troops launched a patrol toward Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits before the exchange could take place.
However, the operation quickly turned into a fierce gun battle as the soldiers came under heavy fire from the kidnappers. The troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to abandon two hostages and the ransom money before fleeing into the forest with gunshot wounds.
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Lieutenant Abdullahi reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to eliminating criminal elements from Kogi State and ensuring the safety of all citizens. He urged the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible and timely information to aid counter-kidnapping operations.
The Itobe–Adumu–Ejule corridor, known for its history of abductions and violent crimes, has recently seen intensified military patrols as part of renewed efforts by the 12 Brigade to restore peace and stability across the region.
This latest success highlights the growing efficiency of joint security operations in curbing kidnapping and banditry across Nigeria’s North-Central states. Residents have praised the troops’ swift action, describing the mission as a bold statement of the Army’s readiness to protect lives and property.
