Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have rescued a kidnapped victim after confronting bandits along the Oshokoshoko–Obajana area of Kogi State.
The operation took place in the early hours of Tuesday and was carried out by soldiers from the Kabba Patrol Base, working with other security units.
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdulahi, said the troops acted on credible intelligence about the movement of bandits who were crossing the corridor with abducted persons.
He said, “In the early hours of 25 November 2025, after receiving credible information on the movement of bandits with abducted persons, troops carried out a special ambush operation to intercept them.”
Abdulahi explained that the soldiers waited in position and later made contact with the armed group. The bandits opened fire but were overpowered.
“The bandits opened fire but were met with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disorder. One bandit was neutralised while others escaped with gunshot wounds,” he said.
The troops recovered one AK-47 rifle and rescued a kidnapped victim, who was found weak and distressed.
“The victim was immediately evacuated to a medical facility for proper care,” he said.
He added that pursuit operations were ongoing to track down the fleeing criminals.
Abdulahi also said the army would keep up pressure on armed groups to ensure safety across Kogi State.
He said, “The Nigerian Army remains committed to keeping communities safe. Residents are encouraged to support security agencies with useful information to help quick response and improve the fight against crime.”
Troops of the 12 Brigade have been involved in several recent rescue operations in the state. On November 2, soldiers at the Forward Operating Base in Oguma rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ransom money meant for their release.
