Sixteen people abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State have been rescued by troops of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
The victims were abducted on Sunday after armed criminals attacked commuters along routes linking Ojuwo, Ajengo, Memarebo and Itobe. Following intelligence that the victims had been taken towards Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops launched a joint search and rescue operation with the Navy, Police, vigilantes and local hunters.
The Army said the security team eventually engaged the kidnappers in a fierce firefight, forcing them to abandon the captives and escape into the surrounding forest with suspected gunshot wounds.
“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 wound”, the Army said.
The rescued victims comprise six adult males, six adult females and four children. They are undergoing documentation and medical assessment before being reunited with their families.
However, a local hunter who participated in the operation was killed, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving treatment. The Army commended the security personnel and local stakeholders for their cooperation, saying the rescue demonstrated the effectiveness of joint operations.
“The successful rescue of the 16 victims underscores the effectiveness of sustained joint operations and the synergy among the Nigerian Army, sister security agencies and local security stakeholders”, the Army said.
The military has urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
