Military offensive leads to rescue of five kidnapped victims in Kogi as terrorists flee
By Ishaya Ibrahim
The Nigerian army has announced the rescue of five kidnapped victims abandoned by fleeing terrorists during counter-terrorism operations in Kogi State on Tuesday, 17 June 2026.
The rescue was effected by troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army who intensified ground and air operations targeting terrorist enclaves in forested areas of the state. The mission formed part of sustained offensives aimed at dismantling criminal networks and denying terrorists freedom of action within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility, says Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations of 12 Brigade.
Acting on operational directives following a recent air interdiction on a known hideout, he said troops from Forward Operating Base Oshokoshoko were deployed on a blocking mission along the Oshokoshoko–Adankolo route in Adankolo Forest. During the operation, they intercepted five kidnap victims abandoned by terrorists who were fleeing intensified military pressure on their camps.
Preliminary findings indicate the victims regained freedom after the terrorists dispersed under the ongoing kinetic operations. Troops secured and evacuated the victims from the forest before moving them to a military medical facility for treatment and stabilization.
The victims were also debriefed to obtain intelligence that could assist ongoing efforts to locate and neutralize remaining terrorists in the area. The Army said steps have been initiated to reunite the victims with their families after administrative and medical procedures are completed.
Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism. He described the rescue as evidence of the Brigade’s commitment to protecting lives and property, and reassured Kogi residents that aggressive operations will continue until all terrorist camps in the area are dismantled.
He urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that community support remains critical to the success of military operations.
The Army said the rescue underscores the effectiveness of coordinated ground and air operations against criminal elements threatening peace and security in Kogi State.
