By ZAKAA LAZARUS
A Nigerian Army-led joint security team has rescued 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in a coordinated operation in Kogi State.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, on Monday August 10, 2026,
According to the statement, the victims were kidnapped on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area.
Acting on credible intelligence that the victims had been moved to the vicinity of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS, Lugard launched a joint search and rescue operation with the Nigeria Police, vigilantes and local hunters.
During the operation, the joint team made contact with the fleeing kidnappers and engaged them in a firefight. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower, the criminals abandoned the captives and escaped into the surrounding forest.
The operation culminated in the rescue of all 16 victims, comprising six adult males, six adult females and four children. The rescued persons are undergoing documentation, medical assessment and reunification with their families.
The statement said one local hunter was killed during the operation, while one police officer sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.
“The successful rescue underscores the effectiveness of sustained joint operations and synergy among the Nigerian Army, sister security agencies and local stakeholders in combating kidnapping and other violent crimes,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Army commended members of the public for providing timely and credible information, and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
