While en route to the location, troops came under fire from the criminals.
Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Oguma have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered ransom money in an operation aimed at suppressing criminal activity in the state.
The operation took place on 2 November 2025 after troops acted on credible intelligence regarding kidnapping activities along the Itobe–Adumu–Ejule axis and reports that relatives were attempting to deliver ransom payments to secure victims’ release.
Soldiers projected a patrol into Achigili Forest to intercept the suspects.
While en route to the location, troops came under fire from the criminals.
In the ensuing exchange the soldiers engaged the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the two victims and the ransom money before fleeing into the forest with various degrees of gunshot wounds.
According to a statement signed by Hassan Abdullahi, Lieutenant Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army: “Following the encounter, the troops rescued the victims and recovered the sum of ₦3,800,000 intended for ransom payment.
The rescued victims were immediately debriefed to aid further operations, while the recovered cash was handed back to them. They are currently in safe custody at the troops’ location pending handover to the appropriate authorities.”
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its determination to protect lives and property. Members of the public are therefore enjoined to continually support the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid in the fight against criminal elements within the state,” the statement added.