Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued five abducted civilians and discovered decomposing remains during a clearance operation in the forested outskirts of Lokoja Local Government Area in Kogi State.
According to a credible military source, soldiers drawn from Obajana and Kabba patrol bases mounted a fighting patrol to Ankomi village in the Adankolo general area after receiving reliable intelligence about bandit activity. The team found that the settlement, previously occupied by suspected bandits, had been destroyed and abandoned.
Nigerian Army rescues victims in Kogi
While extending their search to a nearby river line, troops intercepted three women and two children. Preliminary debriefing indicated that the group were victims of the Ayetoro Kiri kidnap incident. The rescued civilians were taken to Fisayo Hospital, Obajana, where they are receiving medical attention.
During further exploitation of the area, soldiers discovered two decomposing bodies believed to be those of abducted persons. One corpse was evacuated to St. Joseph Mortuary in Kabba for preservation and forensic examination. Efforts were continuing to recover the remaining remains.
The military source said debriefing of the rescued victims was ongoing to support intelligence-led operations aimed at rescuing other abductees. Troop morale and fighting efficiency remained satisfactory, the source added, and operations to locate and free additional victims are ongoing.
Security officials described the general security situation in the area as calm but unpredictable. Local communities have reportedly been displaced by repeated attacks, and military patrols continue to clear suspected hideouts and riverine routes used by bandits.
Residents and local leaders welcomed the rescue but urged sustained operations and improved coordination with local law enforcement to prevent further kidnappings. The military has called on residents to provide timely information to patrol bases to help guide targeted missions.
Medical staff at Fisayo Hospital confirmed that the rescued women and children are under observation and receiving treatment for dehydration and related ailments. Authorities have said counselling and further medical care will be provided as required while investigations continue.
Following the operation, the army reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal networks operating in Kogi State. Intelligence-driven patrols, community engagement and continued collaboration with other security agencies were cited as essential to reducing kidnapping incidents and restoring stability to affected communities.
As operations proceed, officials warned that the security picture remains fluid and urged caution among residents in riverine and forested areas until patrols can guarantee a safer environment.
Key Takeaways:
- Nigerian Army rescues victims after a clearance operation in Lokoja Local Government Area.
- Three women and two children intercepted; preliminary debriefing links them to the Ayetoro Kiri incident.
- Two decomposing bodies discovered; one evacuated and the other recovery ongoing.
- Rescued victims receiving medical care and debriefing to aid ongoing rescue efforts.
