A joint security operation led by the Nigerian Army has rescued all 16 victims abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The victims were abducted on Sunday, August 9, 2026, after armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads.
Following credible intelligence that the victims had been taken towards Adumu community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops of 21 Battalion, alongside personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters, launched a search-and-rescue operation.
The security team eventually caught up with the fleeing kidnappers, triggering a gun battle between both sides.
According to the Army, the coordinated assault and superior firepower of the joint team forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and retreat into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
The rescued victims comprise six adult males, six adult females and four children.
The Army said the victims were undergoing documentation and medical assessment before being reunited with their families.
However, a local hunter who participated in the operation was killed during the encounter, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
The Army commended the security personnel and local stakeholders involved in the operation, saying the successful rescue underscored the effectiveness of sustained joint operations against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely and credible information on suspicious activities.
