Security forces in Kogi State have rescued all 16 passengers kidnapped by suspected bandits on August 9, 2026, following a coordinated search-and-rescue operation in Dekina Local Government Area. The joint team, led by the Nigerian Army, engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee.
Rescue Operation Details
Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, confirmed the rescue in a statement on Monday, August 10, 2026. According to the statement, intelligence received at about 11:30 a.m. on August 10 indicated that the victims had been sighted around Adumu community in Dekina.
Troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police, local vigilantes, and Hybrid Forces, launched a search-and-rescue operation. The security forces made contact with the suspected kidnappers and engaged them in a gun battle, forcing the criminals to abandon the victims and flee into the surrounding area.
Casualties and Victims
The encounter resulted in the death of one member of the Hybrid Forces, while a police personnel sustained injuries. The rescued victims comprised six males, six females, and four children.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army, working in close collaboration with personnel of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters, have successfully rescued all 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers during a coordinated search and rescue operation in Kogi State,” the statement read.
Background and Aftermath
The victims were kidnapped on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area. Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, troops of 21 Battalion and personnel of NNS Lugard launched a joint operation.
“During the operation, the joint security team established contact with the fleeing kidnappers and engaged them in a fierce firefight. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordinated assault of the security forces, the criminals abandoned all their captives and escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds,” the statement added.
The rescued victims are undergoing documentation, medical assessment, and reunification with their families. Regrettably, one local hunter who participated courageously in the operation paid the supreme sacrifice, and one police personnel sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Security Forces' Commitment
The successful rescue underscores the effectiveness of sustained joint operations and the synergy among the Nigerian Army, sister security agencies, and local security stakeholders in combating kidnapping and other violent crimes. The Nigerian Army commends members of the public for their continued cooperation and timely provision of credible information, which remains critical to ongoing efforts to protect lives and restore peace.
Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels.
