Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed two suspected kidnappers and rescued a civilian abducted in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State during a joint security operation.
The raid, carried out on Saturday morning, also led to the recovery of items belonging to the suspects, while several others reportedly fled the scene with gunshot injuries.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, citing military sources in a post on X, said the operation was conducted around 9:16 a.m. by troops of the 12 Brigade stationed at the Ofante–Unyi Ogugu Patrol Base in collaboration with the police.
The operation was launched following credible intelligence on the abduction of a civilian in Orakam village, prompting a coordinated response by security forces.
Acting on the information, the joint team stormed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout located at Adego Trailer Park, where they encountered armed resistance from the suspects.
A gun battle reportedly ensued, during which two of the kidnappers were neutralised, while others escaped into nearby bush areas.
“They added that two kidnappers were neutralised during the exchange of fire, while others fled the scene,” Makama quoted security sources as saying.
The abducted victim was successfully rescued alive during the operation and has since been handed over to the appropriate authorities for medical attention and debriefing.
Security personnel also recovered a mobile phone and the sum of ₦40,000 from the scene, believed to be linked to the suspects.
Authorities say follow-up operations are ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the wider criminal network operating in the area.
The Nigerian Army has continued to intensify counter-kidnapping operations across parts of the country amid rising concerns over rural insecurity and bandit activity.
