Troops of the Nigerian Army have thwarted an ambush by armed bandits and rescued a kidnapped victim in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation, carried out by personnel of the 12 Brigade, was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, by Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, who said it was part of intensified efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the state.
According to the statement, the victim was found weak and distressed and was immediately evacuated to a medical facility for further medical attention. The statement read, “Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have successfully foiled an ambush by armed bandits and rescued a kidnapped victim during a coordinated operation around Oshokoshoko and Obajana in Lokoja Local Government Area.”
It added that in the early hours of November 25, 2025, troops at the Kabba Patrol Base, acting on credible intelligence on the movement of bandits crossing the Oshokoshoko–Obajana corridor with abducted persons, conducted a special ambush operation in collaboration with other hybrid forces. The troops intercepted the criminals, who opened fire but were overpowered by superior firepower, forcing the bandits to flee in disarray. One bandit was neutralized while others escaped with gunshot injuries.
The operation also led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and the rescue of one kidnapped victim, who was subsequently taken for medical care. Further exploitation and pursuit operations are ongoing to track down fleeing members of the criminal group. The Army noted that it remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal networks and ensuring the safety of communities across Kogi State.
The statement urged residents to continue supporting ongoing operations. “Residents are encouraged to maintain trust in the ongoing operations and to support security agencies with useful information that can enhance prompt response and strengthen the collective fight against crime.”
