TROOPS OF 12 BRIGADE RESCUE TWO KIDNAPPED VICTIMS AND RECOVER RANSOM IN KOGI STATE

Oguma, Kogi State | 2 November 2025

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

The operation, which led to the successful rescue of the victims, was conducted on 2 November 2025, following credible intelligence reports of kidnapping activities along the

Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis, as well as information indicating that relatives of some victims were attempting to deliver ransom payments to secure their release. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops projected a patrol towards Achigili Forest with the aim of intercepting the bandits.
While en route to the identified location, the troops came under fire from the criminals. In the ensuing exchange, the gallant soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the bandits to abandon two kidnapped victims along with the ransom money. The criminals fled into the forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.

Following the encounter, the troops successfully rescued the two victims and recovered the sum of ₦3,800,000 (three million, eight hundred thousand naira) intended for ransom payment. The rescued victims were immediately debriefed to aid ongoing operations, while the recovered cash was returned to them. Both victims are currently in safe custody at the troops’ location pending formal handover to the appropriate authorities.
The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to protecting lives and property across the nation. Members of the public are therefore urged to continue supporting the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations against criminal elements in the state.

Hassan Abdullahi
Lieutenant
Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
12 Brigade Nigerian Army
2 November 2025
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