Sixteen kidnap victims, including four children, have regained their freedom after a joint operation by troops of the Nigerian Army, personnel of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters in Kogi State.

The victims were abducted on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed kidnappers attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Council of the state.

Their ordeal ended after security forces tracked the fleeing kidnappers to the vicinity of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Council, where they mounted a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.

The operation, however, came at a heavy cost, as a local hunter who joined the security team was killed during the encounter, while a police officer sustained injuries.

In a statement, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the rescue operation followed credible intelligence indicating that the abductors had moved their captives towards Adumu.

According to her, troops of the 21 Battalion and personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard, working alongside the police, vigilantes and local hunters, launched a search for the victims.

The security team eventually established contact with the fleeing kidnappers and engaged them in a fierce firefight.

Anele said the criminals, overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordinated assault of the security forces, abandoned all their captives and fled into the surrounding forest, some of them reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds.

The 16 victims rescued comprised six adult males, six adult females and four children.

The victims are currently undergoing documentation and medical assessment before being reunited with their families.

“Regrettably, one local hunter who participated courageously in the operation paid the supreme sacrifice. May his soul rest in peace.

“Also, one police personnel sustained injuries during the encounter and is currently receiving medical treatment. Their bravery and commitment to protecting innocent citizens are deeply appreciated,” Anele said.

She commended the public for providing timely and credible information, stressing that such cooperation remains critical to ongoing efforts to protect lives and restore peace.

She urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to report suspicious activities through appropriate channels, assuring that security agencies would sustain efforts to protect communities and prevent criminal elements from operating freely.