In a major security operation in Kogi State, the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, working alongside other security agencies, has successfully freed six individuals from kidnappers in Obajana.
The rescue, which took place in the early hours of Thursday, 14 August 2025, was based on timely intelligence pinpointing the location of the victims.
Acting on the information, the troops tracked the kidnappers to a forest hideout, where they confronted them with overwhelming force. The captives were recovered unharmed, while the perpetrators fled the scene, leaving behind weapons, ammunition, and other materials.
Investigations revealed that the victims had been abducted on separate occasions. Four were taken on 12 August in Asinwe community, Okehi Local Government Area, while two others had been kidnapped earlier, on 28 July, in Apata community, Lokoja. Notably among the rescued was Mallam Adamu Zage, the Seriki Fulani of Asinwe, who had been seized from his home.
Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 12 Brigade in Lokoja, confirmed the details of the operation, highlighting the precision and coordination involved.
Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, Commander of 12 Brigade and Force Commander of Operation Accord III, through Lieutenant Colonel Francis Nwoffiah of 126 Battalion, praised the professionalism of the troops and their partner agencies.
He also issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating in Kogi and surrounding areas, emphasizing that further illegal activities would meet swift military response.
The general assured that the Nigerian Army will maintain intensified operations across the region to prevent criminals from finding refuge.
The rescued individuals, four men and two women, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the military and other security forces for their rapid intervention. Mallam Zage, speaking for the group, thanked God for their safety and prayed for continued success for the security personnel involved.
Following their rescue, the victims have been transferred to relevant authorities for medical checks and further investigations.