Sixteen kidnapped commuters, including four children, have been rescued in Kogi State after a joint security operation forced their abductors to flee into the forest.
According to the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the victims were abducted on Sunday, August 9, when suspected kidnappers attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area.
Acting on intelligence that the victims had been taken towards Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard launched a search operation with the Nigeria Police Force, vigilantes and local hunters.
The security team later made contact with the fleeing kidnappers, leading to a gun battle in which the attackers were overpowered.
The kidnappers abandoned the captives and escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
The rescued group comprised six adult males, six adult females and four children. They are undergoing documentation and medical assessment before being reunited with their families.
The operation came at a cost, as one local hunter involved in the rescue was killed during the encounter, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.
The Army said the operation demonstrated the value of joint action among security agencies and local security stakeholders in confronting kidnapping and other violent crimes.
It also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information on suspicious activities to security agencies.
Anele said the Army appreciated members of the public for their cooperation and timely sharing of information, describing such support as critical to efforts to protect lives and restore peace.