By Ahmed Muhammed Danasabe
Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria
November 3, 2025(Series News Online)
In a daring rescue operation, troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully freed two kidnapped victims and recovered the ransom money meant for their release. The operation took place on November 2, 2025, following credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe-Adumu-Ejule axis.
According to Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, the troops acted swiftly on the information and projected a patrol to Achigili Forest to intercept the bandits. "While en route to the location, the troops came under fire from the criminals. In the ensuing exchange, the gallant soldiers engaged the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon two victims along with the ransom money," Abdullahi said.
The troops rescued the victims and recovered the sum of ₦3,800,000 (three million, eight hundred thousand naira) intended for ransom payment. The rescued victims were immediately debriefed to aid further operations, while the recovered cash was handed back to them.
The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its determination to protect lives and property. "Members of the public are therefore enjoined to continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid in the fight against criminal elements within the state," Abdullahi emphasized.
The rescued victims are currently in safe custody at the troops' location pending handover to the appropriate authorities. The military's efforts to apprehend the fleeing bandits are ongoing, with the aim of bringing them to justice.
