Troops of the Nigerian Army, working alongside the Navy, Police, vigilantes, and local hunters, have successfully rescued all 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Kogi State.
The victims were taken on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area. Acting on credible intelligence that the captives had been moved to Adumu Community in Dekina, troops of the 21 Battalion and personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard launched a coordinated search and rescue mission.
During the operation, the joint security team engaged the kidnappers in a fierce firefight. Outmatched by the superior firepower and coordinated assault, the criminals abandoned their captives and fled into the forest with gunshot wounds. All 16 victims—six men, six women, and four children—were freed and are now undergoing medical checks, documentation, and reunification with their families.
The mission came at a cost. One local hunter lost his life while fighting courageously, and a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.
Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, described the rescue as proof of the effectiveness of joint operations and community cooperation. She commended the bravery of those involved and urged citizens to remain vigilant, stressing that timely information from the public remains vital in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to denying criminal elements freedom of action across the country, while honouring the sacrifice of those who risked and gave their lives to protect others.
