Army-led Joint Team Rescues 16 Kidnap Victims In Kogi

A Nigerian Army-led joint security team has rescued all 16 victims abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The victims were kidnapped on Sunday, 9 August 2026, when armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads.

https://x.com/HQNigerianArmy/status/2087061236617720258

The Nigerian Army said troops of 21 Battalion, working with personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters, launched a search and rescue operation after receiving credible intelligence that the victims had been taken towards Adumu community in Dekina Local Government Area.

During the operation, the joint security team encountered the fleeing kidnappers and engaged them in a firefight.

The Army said the kidnappers were overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordinated assault of the security forces, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.

The rescued victims comprised six adult males, six adult females and four children.

They are currently undergoing documentation and medical assessment before being reunited with their families.

However, a local hunter who participated in the operation was killed during the encounter, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

The Army commended the security personnel and local stakeholders involved in the operation, saying the successful rescue demonstrated the effectiveness of sustained joint operations in tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes.

It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing security agencies with timely and credible information on suspicious activities.