Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have rescued six kidnapped victims during a coordinated operation in Obajana, Kogi State.
The operation, conducted in the early hours of Thursday, 14 August 2025, was based on credible intelligence regarding the victims’ location.
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement after the rescue.
Acting promptly, the troops and their partners tracked the kidnappers to a forest hideout, engaged them with superior firepower, and rescued all six captives unharmed.
The kidnappers, confronted by the advancing troops, fled with gunshot wounds, abandoning their captives along with ammunition and other items.
Initial findings revealed that four of the victims were abducted on 12 August in Asinwe community, Okehi Local Government Area, while two others were kidnapped on 28 July in Apata community, Lokoja.
Among those rescued was the Seriki Fulani of Asinwe community, Mallam Adamu Zage, who was abducted from his residence.
Speaking after the operation, Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Accord III, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi represented by the Commanding Officer 126 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Francis Nwoffiah commended the professionalism of the troops and security agencies.
He warned kidnappers and bandits operating in Kogi State and its environs to desist from their criminal activities or face decisive military action.
He also assured that the Nigerian Army would continue to intensify operations across Kogi and adjoining states to deny criminals any safe haven.
The rescued victims, four males and two females expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their swift intervention.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Mallam Zage thanked God for their release and prayed for the continued success of the security forces.
The victims have since been handed over to the relevant authorities for medical evaluation and further action.
