Troops rescue six kidnap victims in Kogi

Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, in collaboration with other security agencies, have rescued six kidnapped victims in Obajana, Kogi State.

The operation, which was conducted early hours of Thursday, saw the successful rescue of the victims without any casualties on the part of the troops.

Addressing newsmen on Thursday in Obajana, Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Accord III, Brig. Gen Kasim Sidi, said the rescue operation was made possible through intelligent reporting and gathering. 

Sidi, represented by the Commanding Officer 126 Battalion, Lt Col. Francis Nwoffiah, said the troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, were able to track down the kidnappers to a location in the forest, where they were keeping the victims. 

He said the kidnappers fled with injuries after encountering superior firepower from the troops, abandoning their victims and some of their belongings, including ammunition.

“The rescued victims include the Seriki Fulani of Asinwe community in Okehi Local Government Area, who was abducted from his residence. 

“Four of the victims were kidnapped on August 12 in the Asinwe community, while two were abducted on July 28 in the Apata community, Lokoja. 

“The victims were successfully rescued unhurt and are set to be reunited with their families after receiving medical attention,” he said.

The Commander warned bandits and kidnappers in Kogi State and its environs to quit or face their Waterloo, assuring that efforts are ongoing to scale up military operations within Kogi and its boundary states. 

He commended the troops and other security agents for their bravery and professionalism in conducting the rescue operation.

The six victims comprised four males and two females.

A victim, Mallam Adamu Zage, the Seriki Fulani, Asinwe community, commended the troops for coming to their aid, while also expressing gratitude to God for the rescue.

“May God Almighty continue to help and protect the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies,” Zage said. 

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