Security forces rescue 21 kidnapped victims in Kogi forest
By Zagazola Makama
Security forces have rescued 21 kidnapped victims, including 15 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, following a joint search-and-rescue operation in a forest area between Egume and Ochaja in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The victims were abducted after bandits attacked and kidnapped road users along the Alloma–Ejule–Itobe road in Kogi State on Aug. 26.
Zagazola Makama reports that the rescue operation was conducted on Aug. 31 by a joint team comprising troops of the 12 Brigade, personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters and members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) from Dekina LGA.
According to a military security update obtained by Zagazola Makama, the joint team encountered the suspected kidnappers at about 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 31 in their makeshift camp within the forest.
The security team launched a surprise assault on the camp, forcing the kidnappers to flee and abandon their captives.
The operation subsequently led to the rescue of a total of 21 victims, comprising eight males and 13 females.
Among those rescued were 15 corps members who had been held captive by the kidnappers.
One of the male victims, also a corps member, sustained a gunshot wound to the leg during the incident and was immediately evacuated to the 21 Battalion Medical Reception Station for medical attention.
The rescued victims were subsequently moved to the headquarters of the 21 Battalion, where they are currently receiving medical attention and being stabilized following their ordeal.
The joint security team also destroyed the makeshift camp used by the kidnappers, denying the criminal group a temporary base from which to operate in the area.
The successful operation highlights the importance of sustained cooperation among the military, intelligence agencies, local security outfits and community-based actors in tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities along vulnerable road corridors.
Security forces are expected to continue operations in the area to track the fleeing kidnappers and prevent them from regrouping.
Further details on the operation and the identities of the rescued victims are expected to be released as authorities complete their assessments.
