Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies and local security groups, have rescued 21 kidnap victims in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi.
Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, on Monday said the victims, comprising eight males and 13 females, were rescued on Monday during a coordinated search operation in the Egume and Ochaja forest areas.
He said the operation followed reports of the abduction of road users along the Alloma-Ejule-Itobe road axis.
“Acting on credible intelligence, troops of 12 Brigade, alongside personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, local hunters and vigilantes, mobilised from 21 Battalion.
“The joint team subsequently conducted an extensive search of adjoining forests, leading to the successful rescue of all 21 victims.
“However, one of the male victims sustained a gunshot wound during the incident and was promptly evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
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“The rescued victims are currently in the custody of the troops, pending their handover to the appropriate authorities,” he said.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has commended the troops and personnel of the collaborating security agencies for their courage and effective cooperation.
Shaibu also commended the local hunters and vigilantes for their contribution to the successful operation.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
The COAS said sustained public cooperation remained critical to ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the country.
NAN
