Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have recorded another significant breakthrough in the ongoing operations to stamp out banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across Kogi State. Soldiers on patrol successfully foiled an ambush and rescued a kidnapped victim during a coordinated operation around the Oshokoshoko–Obajana axis in Lokoja Local Government Area.
According to military sources, the operation took place in the early hours of Tuesday, 25 November 2025, following actionable intelligence on the movement of armed bandits believed to be escorting abducted persons through the corridor.
Troops deployed from the Kabba Patrol Base, working in collaboration with other hybrid security forces, executed a special ambush aimed at intercepting the criminal group. The soldiers made contact with the bandits shortly after taking positions.
The armed group, moving with an unconfirmed number of fighters, opened fire on sighting the troops. The soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the bandits to retreat in disarray. One of the attackers was neutralised in the exchange, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle at the scene and successfully rescued one kidnapped victim, who was found weak and traumatised. The victim was immediately evacuated to a medical facility for urgent care.
Military authorities confirmed that further exploitation and pursuit operations are ongoing to track down the fleeing criminals and dismantle their network.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements across Kogi State and urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
