Joint Security Forces Rescue 16 Kidnap Victims in Kogi

On Sunday, 9 August, a joint security operation in Kogi led to the rescue of 16 kidnapping victims who had been abducted along the Ojuwo-Ajengo-Memarebo and Ojiwo-Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area. The operation was initiated following credible intelligence that the victims had been moved towards Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area.

Troops from the 21 Battalion, personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes, and hunters participated in the operation. Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, confirmed that the security team engaged the fleeing kidnappers in a firefight, forcing them to abandon the victims.

The rescued group included six adult males, six adult females, and four children, who are now undergoing documentation and medical assessment. Tragically, one local hunter was killed, and a police officer was injured during the operation.

The Nigerian Army commended the public for their cooperation and timely information, which is crucial in disrupting kidnapping networks.