Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ₦3.8 million ransom during a counter-kidnapping operation in Kogi State.

In a statement shared on the Army’s official Facebook page, the operation was conducted by soldiers of the 12 Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Oguma.

According to the report, the rescue took place on November 2, 2025, following credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis, as well as information that relatives of some abducted individuals were en route to deliver ransom payments.

“Troops acted swiftly on the information and launched a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits,” the statement said.

On their way to the location, the soldiers reportedly came under heavy fire from the kidnappers. “In the ensuing exchange, the gallant troops overpowered the criminals with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon two victims and the ransom money,” the Army added.

The fleeing bandits were said to have escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds, while the troops rescued the victims and recovered ₦3,800,000 intended as ransom.

The Army stated that the rescued individuals were debriefed to assist further investigations, and the recovered cash was returned to them. They remain in safe custody pending their formal handover to the relevant authorities.

Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, who signed the statement, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He also urged the public to continue supporting the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid efforts in tackling criminal activities in the state.