By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under the 2 Division, have rescued five kidnap victims who were abandoned by fleeing terrorists during ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Kogi State.
The rescue operation, carried out on June 17, 2026, followed intensified military offensives against terrorist enclaves operating within forested areas of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the operation formed part of sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks led by notorious terrorist kingpins and deny them freedom of movement within the brigade’s area of responsibility.
The statement explained that troops deployed from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oshokoshoko were conducting a blocking mission along the Oshokoshoko–Adankolo route within the Adankolo Forest following a recent air interdiction mission against a known terrorist hideout.
During the operation, the troops intercepted five kidnap victims who had been abandoned by the terrorists while fleeing intense military pressure on their camps.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims regained their freedom after the criminals dispersed in the wake of ongoing coordinated ground and air assaults targeting their hideouts.
The rescued victims were immediately secured and evacuated from the forest to a safe location before being moved to a military medical facility for treatment and stabilization.
Military authorities disclosed that the victims were also debriefed to obtain intelligence that could support ongoing operations aimed at tracking and neutralizing the remaining terrorists in the area. Efforts are underway to reunite them with their families after the completion of necessary medical and administrative procedures.
The Army noted that the successful rescue underscores the effectiveness of ongoing coordinated operations by troops of the 12 Brigade against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening peace and security in Kogi State.
The statement further stressed that the operation demonstrates the military’s determination to sustain pressure on criminal groups until all terrorist camps and safe havens within the area are completely dismantled.
Commending the troops for their vigilance, resilience and professionalism, the Commander of 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, described the rescue as a testament to the brigade’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He reassured residents of Kogi State and neighbouring communities that troops would continue aggressive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements until lasting peace and security are restored.
General Sidi also urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that public cooperation remains vital to the success of ongoing military operations.
