Nigerian Army-led joint security team has rescued 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Kogi State during a coordinated operation on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
The victims were kidnapped along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area.
Acting on credible intelligence that the victims were moved to the vicinity of Adumu Community in Dekina LGA, troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of NNS Lugard launched a joint search and rescue operation alongside the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters.
The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, said the team made contact with the fleeing kidnappers and engaged them in a fierce firefight.
Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the criminals abandoned the captives and escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds.
All 16 victims were rescued unharmed. They comprise six adult males, six adult females and four children. The rescued persons are undergoing documentation, medical assessment and reunification with their families.
Regrettably, one local hunter died* during the operation, while one police officer sustained injuries* and is receiving treatment.
“The successful rescue underscores the effectiveness of sustained joint operations and synergy among the Nigerian Army, sister security agencies and local stakeholders in combating kidnapping,”* Colonel Anele said.
The Army commended members of the public for providing timely information and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
