Troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have repelled bandits and rescued a kidnapped victim during an operation around Oshokoshoko and Obajana in the Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
A statement issued early Wednesday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, Lokoja, Lieutenant Hassan Abdulahi, said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the state.
Abdulahi said, “In the early hours of 25 November 2025, following credible information on the movement of bandits crossing the Oshokoshoko–Obajana corridor with abducted persons, troops deployed at the Kabba Patrol Base, working jointly with other hybrid forces, conducted a special ambush operation to intercept the criminals.
“The troops laid in wait and made contact with the armed criminals who were moving with an unconfirmed number of fighters.
“The bandits opened fire but were met with superior firepower from the troops, forcing them to withdraw in disorder. During the encounter, one bandit was neutralised while others fled with various degrees of gunshot wounds.”
He said the operation also led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and the rescue of a kidnapped victim.
“The victim, who was found weak and distressed, was immediately evacuated to a medical facility for further attention,” he added.
Abdulahi said further exploitation and pursuit operations were ongoing to track fleeing members of the criminal group.
“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in sustaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring that communities across Kogi State are safe and secure.
“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,” he added.
PUNCH reports that troops of the 12 Brigade in Lokoja have been involved in the ongoing war against banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes in the state.
On November 2, troops deployed at Forward Operating Base, Oguma, successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered the ransom money meant for their release.
PUNCH.
