Troops Foil Bandits’ Attack, Rescue Kidnap Victim In Kogi

Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully foiled an attack by armed bandits and rescued a kidnapped victim during a coordinated operation around Oshokoshoko and Obajana in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, said the operation was part of ongoing intensified efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across Kogi State.

“In the early hours of 25 November 2025, following credible information on the movement of bandits crossing the Oshokoshoko Obajana corridor with abducted persons, troops deployed at the Kabba Patrol Base, working jointly with Other Hybrid Forces, conducted a special ambush operation to intercept the criminals.

“The troops lay in wait and made contact with the armed criminals who were moving with an unconfirmed number of fighters. The bandits opened fire but were met with superior firepower from the troops, forcing them to withdraw in disorder. During the encounter, one bandit was neutralised while others fled with various degrees of gunshot wounds,” Abdullahi explained.

He added that the operation further led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and the rescue of one kidnapped victim.

“The victim, who was found weak and distressed, was immediately evacuated to a medical facility for further medical attention.”

The director stressed that further exploitation and pursuit operations were ongoing to track fleeing members of the criminal group.

He assured that the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in sustaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring that communities across Kogi State are safe and secure.

“Residents are encouraged to maintain trust in the ongoing operations and to support security agencies with useful information that can enhance prompt response and strengthen the collective fight against crime,” Lt. Abdullahi said.