Nigerian Army-led joint security team rescue 16 kidnapped passengers, neutralise bandits in Kogi

Security forces have rescued 16 kidnapped victims, including four children, following an operation against suspected bandits in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.

LIB earlier reported that the victims were kidnapped on August 9, 2026 when suspected bandits attacked three vehicles along the Ojuwo-Ajengo-Memarebo and Ojiwo-Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area.

Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele confirmed the rescue in a statement on Monday, 10 August 2026.

According to the statement, information received at about 11:30 a.m. on August 10 indicated that the victims had been sighted around Adumu community in Dekina.

Following the intelligence, troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police, local vigilantes and Hybrid Forces, launched a search-and-rescue operation in the area.

The security forces eventually made contact with the suspected kidnappers and engaged them in a gun battle, forcing the criminals to abandon the victims and flee into the surrounding area.

The encounter, however, resulted in the d3ath of one member of the Hybrid Forces, while a police personnel sustained injuries.

The rescued victims comprised six males, six females and four children.

“Troops of the Nigerian Army, working in close collaboration with personnel of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters, have successfully rescued all 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers during a coordinated search and rescue operation in Kogi State,” the statement read.

“The victims were kidnapped on Sunday 9 August 2026 when armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area of the state. 

“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence  that the victims had been moved to the vicinity of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard immediately launched a joint search and rescue operation alongside the Nigeria Police, vigilantes and local hunters.

“During the operation,  the joint security team established contact with the fleeing kidnappers and engaged them in a fierce firefight. 

“Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordinated assault of the security forces, the criminals abandoned all their captives and escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.

“The operation culminated in the successful rescue of all 16 kidnapped victims, comprising six adult males, six adult females and four children. 

“The rescued victims are undergoing  documentation, medical assessment and reunification with their families.

“Regrettably, one local hunter who participated courageously in the operation paid the supreme sacrifice, May his soul rest in peace. 

“Also, one police personnel sustained injuries during the encounter and is currently receiving medical treatment. Their bravery and commitment to protecting innocent citizens are deeply appreciated.

“The successful rescue of the 16 victims underscores the effectiveness of sustained joint operations and the synergy among the Nigerian Army, sister security agencies and local security stakeholders in combating kidnapping and other violent crimes. It also reflects the resolve of security forces to deny criminal elements freedom of action across the country.

“The Nigerian Army commends members of the public for their continued cooperation and timely provision of credible information, which remains critical to ongoing efforts to protect lives and restore peace. 

“Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels.”