By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have foiled a bandit attack and rescued a kidnapped victim during a security operation conducted around the Oshokoshoko–Obajana axis in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.The operation, aimed at curbing banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in the state, took place in the early hours of November 25, 2025.
In a statement, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Lokoja, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, said the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of armed criminals escorting abducted persons through the corridor.According to him, troops deployed at the Kabba Patrol Base, working in collaboration with hybrid security forces, launched a special ambush to intercept the bandits.“The troops laid in wait and made contact with the armed criminals who were moving with an unconfirmed number of fighters,” Abdullahi said.He added that the bandits opened fire upon sighting the troops but were overpowered by the soldiers’ superior firepower.“
One bandit was neutralised while others fled with gunshot wounds,” he stated.The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle during the operation. They also rescued a kidnapped victim who was found weak and distressed before being evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.The Army urged residents to continue supporting ongoing security operations with credible information.Abdullahi assured the public that the Nigerian Army would “remain steadfast in sustaining pressure on criminal groups and ensuring that communities across Kogi State are safe and secure.”
