A joint security team led by the Nigerian Army has rescued all 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Kogi State.

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

According to a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, on Tuesday, the rescue operation followed credible intelligence that the victims had been moved to the vicinity of Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area.

Troops of 21 Battalion, working with personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard, immediately launched a joint search-and-rescue operation alongside the Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters.

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

The Army said the kidnappers, overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordinated assault of the security forces, abandoned all the captives and fled into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.

The 16 rescued victims 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, the statement said.

However, a local hunter who participated in the operation was killed during the encounter, while a police officer sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

The Army commended the courage and commitment of the deceased hunter and the injured police officer in the effort to rescue the abducted victims.

It also said the successful operation demonstrated the effectiveness of sustained joint operations and the cooperation between the military, other security agencies and local security stakeholders in combating kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The Army reaffirmed the resolve of security forces to deny criminal elements freedom of action across the country.

It further commended members of the public for providing timely and credible information to security agencies, describing such cooperation as critical to efforts to protect lives and restore peace.

The Army urged residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels.