By peterside Rejoice
Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered N3.8 million ransom meant for their release during an operation in Kogi State.
The operation was carried out on Sunday in Achigili Forest along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule road, following credible intelligence on kidnapping activities in the area.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Brigade Spokesperson, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, on Monday in Lokoja.
According to Abdullahi, the troops acted swiftly on intelligence that relatives of the kidnapped victims were on their way to deliver ransom to the abductors.
“In a sustained effort to rid Kogi of criminal activities, the troops followed credible intelligence on kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis, as well as reports of victims’ relatives attempting to deliver ransom to secure their release on November 2,” the statement said.
He explained that the soldiers launched a patrol to intercept the criminals but came under fire while approaching the Achigili Forest.
“In the ensuing exchange, the gallant troops engaged the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the two victims along with the ransom money. The criminals fled into the forest with various degrees of gunshot wounds,” Abdullahi stated.
He added that the victims, one male and one female, were rescued unhurt, while ₦3.8 million, the ransom money, was recovered and returned to them.
“The rescued victims were immediately debriefed to aid further operations, while the recovered cash was handed back to them. They are currently in safe custody at the troops’ location pending handover to the appropriate authorities,” the statement added.
The spokesperson reaffirmed the army’s commitment to protecting lives and property in the state and urged residents to support the military with credible information.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to protect lives and property. We call on members of the public to continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid the fight against criminal elements,” Abdullahi said.
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