Soldiers from 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have rescued six people held captive by bandits in the dense Ejiba and Saminaka forests of Yagba East Local Government Area, Kogi State.
The operation combined ground troops with air support from a Nigeria Police helicopter, forcing the kidnappers to abandon their victims under heavy military pressure.
Brigade spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, announced the success in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lokoja.
“Five of the rescued individuals have been reunited with their families in Egbe and Ejiba communities, while the sixth is receiving medical attention,” he said.
He described the rescue as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle bandit hideouts and restore safety across the region.
“Troops will continue to intensify operations, dominate the forests, identify hideouts, and deny criminals the freedom of action,” Abdullahi added.
The victims were among several worshippers abducted during a Sunday church service at a Cherubim and Seraphim congregation in Ejiba community.
The Brigade reassured residents that the Army remains fully committed to protecting lives and property throughout Kogi State.
