Abuja: Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies and local security groups, have successfully rescued 21 kidnap victims in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi. This operation marks a significant achievement in the ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping in the region.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this development was detailed in a statement by Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army. The rescue operation took place on Monday, during a coordinated search in the Egume and Ochaja forest areas. The victims, consisting of eight males and 13 females, were abducted from the Alloma-Ejule-Itobe road axis.
Acting on credible intelligence, a joint team comprising troops of the 12 Brigade, personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, local hunters, and vigilantes from the 21 Battalion, mobilized for the search. Their extensive operation in the surrounding forests led to the successful rescue of all 21 victims. However, one male victim sustained a gunshot wound and received immediate medical attention.
The rescued victims are currently under the care of the troops, awaiting transfer to the appropriate authorities. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, praised the troops and other security personnel for their bravery and effective collaboration during the operation. He also acknowledged the vital role played by local hunters and vigilantes.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu urged the public to stay vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that public cooperation is crucial in the fight against kidnapping and other criminal activities throughout the country.