RismadarVoice Reporters, August 11, 2026
An Army-led joint security team has rescued all 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers along major roads in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The victims were abducted on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed men attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads.
Following intelligence that the victims had been taken towards Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops of 21 Battalion, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Police, vigilantes and local hunters, launched a search and rescue operation.
The security team reportedly engaged the fleeing kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon the victims and escape into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
The rescued victims comprised six adult males, six adult females and four children. They are currently undergoing medical assessment and documentation before being reunited with their families.
The Army said one local hunter was killed during the operation, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.
The military commended the participating security agencies and members of the public for their cooperation and timely intelligence, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
