In a significant victory against criminal elements, troops from the Nigerian Army's 12 Brigade in Lokoja have successfully rescued six individuals who were kidnapped during a brazen attack on a church in Kogi State.
Coordinated Operation Secures Freedom
The rescue operation was the culmination of a coordinated search and rescue mission focused on the dense Ejiba and Saminaka Forest axis, which spans both the Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas. According to a statement released by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, the operation involved intensified air and ground offensives.
The mission received crucial support from a Nigeria Police helicopter, creating sustained pressure on the kidnappers. This pressure ultimately forced the bandits to release their captives. Troops deployed at the Patrol Base Ejiba in Yagba West successfully intercepted the six victims as they were freed.
Details of the Ejiba Church Attack
The abduction occurred on Sunday, November 30, when armed gunmen stormed the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba community, located in Yagba East Local Council. The assailants abducted several worshippers, including the church pastor and his wife. The successful rescue of six of these victims brings relief to the traumatized community.
Lieutenant Abdullahi confirmed that the rescued persons were found in a stable condition. Following their recovery, five of the individuals underwent debriefing and have been happily reunited with their families in the Egbe and Ejiba communities of Yagba West Local Government Area.
Ongoing Commitment to Security
The sixth victim is currently receiving necessary medical attention due to their condition at the time of rescue. The 12 Brigade, in its statement, used this operation to reassure the public of the Nigerian Army's unwavering dedication.
"Troops will continue to intensify operations, dominate the forests and identified hideouts, and deny criminals the freedom of action," the statement affirmed. This rescue is presented as a clear testament to the ongoing efforts to eliminate kidnapping and banditry while enhancing overall security across Kogi State.
