Nigerian Army Rescues Six Kidnap Victims During Joint Operation in Kogi Forest

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, in a joint operation with other security agencies, have successfully rescued six kidnap victims from a forest hideout in Obajana, Kogi State.

The operation, which took place in the early hours of Thursday, August 14, 2025, was launched following credible intelligence on the victims’ whereabouts.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at 12 Brigade Headquarters in Lokoja, the troops acted swiftly to locate and confront the kidnappers.

During the operation, the joint forces engaged the abductors in a brief firefight, overpowering them with superior firepower. The kidnappers fled the scene with gunshot wounds, abandoning their captives, weapons, and other items. All six victims were rescued unharmed.

Preliminary investigations revealed that four of the victims were kidnapped on August 12 in Asinwe community, Okehi Local Government Area, while the remaining two were abducted on July 28 in Apata community, Lokoja.

Among those rescued was Mallam Adamu Zage, the Seriki Fulani of Asinwe, who had been taken from his home.

Commending the operation, Commander of 12 Brigade and Force Commander of Operation Accord III, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi—represented by the Commanding Officer of 126 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Francis Nwoffiah—praised the professionalism of the troops and partner agencies.

He issued a stern warning to criminal elements in Kogi and neighboring states, urging them to abandon their activities or face decisive military action.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to maintaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring the safety of all citizens,” he said.

The rescued individuals—four men and two women—expressed deep gratitude to the security forces. Speaking on behalf of the group, Mallam Zage thanked God for their safe return and prayed for continued success in ongoing security operations.

The victims have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for medical attention and further care.