Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued six individuals abducted by bandits in the Ejiba and Saminaka forest areas of Yagba East Local Government Area, Kogi State.
According to a statement from the Brigade’s spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, the operation was part of ongoing military efforts to combat kidnapping and criminal activity in the region.
Lt. Abdullahi explained that the mission combined coordinated air and ground maneuvers, with support from the Nigeria Police helicopter, resulting in the safe recovery of the victims.
The victims were reportedly abandoned by the bandits under pressure from the military’s sustained offensive.
“Five of the rescued individuals have been reunited with their families in Egbe and Ejiba communities, while the sixth is currently receiving medical attention,” he added.
The Brigade reassured residents that the Nigerian Army remains dedicated to protecting lives and property across Kogi State.
“Troops will continue to intensify patrols, dominate forested areas and identified criminal hideouts, and deny perpetrators the opportunity to operate freely,” Lt. Abdullahi stated.
The successful operation comes days after bandits reportedly attacked a local church in Ejiba, abducting the pastor and several worshippers, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilant security measures in the area.