Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have foiled a bandit attack and rescued a kidnapped victim during a coordinated operation around the Oshokoshoko–Obajana axis in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
In a statement released early Wednesday, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lt. Hassan Abdulahi, said the operation was launched following credible intelligence on the movement of armed bandits transporting abducted persons through the area.
According to him, troops from the Kabba Patrol Base, working alongside other hybrid security forces, mounted a special ambush to intercept the criminals.
“When contact was made, the bandits opened fire but were overwhelmed by the troops’ superior firepower,” Abdulahi said. “One bandit was neutralised while others escaped with gunshot injuries.”
An AK-47 rifle was recovered during the encounter, and one kidnap victim was rescued. The rescued victim, described as weak and distressed, was promptly taken to a medical facility for treatment.
Abdulahi added that pursuit operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang. He reiterated the Army’s commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring the safety of residents across Kogi State.
“Communities are urged to continue supporting security agencies with timely and useful information to enhance operational effectiveness,” he said.
Troops of the 12 Brigade have been actively involved in multiple successful operations across the state. Earlier on November 2, soldiers at the Forward Operating Base, Oguma, rescued two kidnap victims and recovered ransom money intended for the criminals.
