Army Foils Bandit Attack, Rescues Kidnap Victim in Kogi

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade have thwarted a bandit operation and rescued an abducted victim during a coordinated mission around the Oshokoshoko–Obajana axis in Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdulahi, disclosed the development in a statement released early Wednesday. He noted that the operation aligns with the military’s renewed push to stamp out banditry, kidnapping, and related crimes across the state.

According to Abdulahi, the troops swung into action on November 25 after receiving intelligence that a group of armed bandits was moving through the corridor with kidnapped persons in their custody. Soldiers stationed at the Kabba Patrol Base, working alongside hybrid security forces, set up a well-planned ambush to intercept the criminals.

The bandits reportedly opened fire on sighting the troops, but the soldiers overpowered them with what Abdulahi described as superior firepower. One of the attackers was neutralised during the exchange, while the others escaped with gunshot wounds.

The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle from the scene and successfully rescued one of the kidnapped victims, who was said to be exhausted and in urgent need of medical attention. The individual was immediately taken to a hospital for treatment.

Abdulahi added that troops are still pursuing the fleeing criminals and combing the surrounding areas to prevent regrouping.

He assured residents that the Army will continue to mount pressure on criminal networks and intensify operations aimed at making communities across Kogi State safer. He also urged locals to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information that can support rapid response.

This incident adds to a series of recent successes recorded by the 12 Brigade. Earlier in the month, troops at the Forward Operating Base in Oguma rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ransom money intended for their release.