Joint Security Team Rescues 16 Kidnap Victims in Kogi

A joint security team led by the Nigerian Army has rescued 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The victims were kidnapped on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed men attacked commuters along the Ojuwo, Ajengo, Memarebo and Ojiwo, Itobe roads.

Following intelligence that the victims had been moved towards Adumu in Dekina LGA, troops of 21 Battalion, personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Police, vigilantes and local hunters launched a search and rescue operation.

The security team engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee into the forest with gunshot wounds.

The rescued victims comprised six adult males, six adult females and four children. They are currently undergoing medical assessment and documentation before reunification with their families.

The Army said one local hunter was killed during the operation, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.

The Army commended the public for providing information that aided the rescue and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.