Nigerian Army Rescues Kidnap Victim in Kogi, Six Suspected Kidnappers Killed
ISSN: 2354-4481
By Fintan Ebirim
The Nigerian Army has rescued a 28-year-old kidnap victim, identified as Samuel Tope, during a military operation in Igbaruku community, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The operation reportedly took place on Monday night, August 10, 2026, following the movement of security operatives into the area after information about the presence of kidnappers was received.
Footage released by the Nigerian Army showed aspects of the rescue operation and the recovery of the victim from the kidnappers’ hideout.
Tope, a native of Igbaruku community, was reportedly found during the operation after troops engaged members of the kidnapping gang in the surrounding bush.
According to information attributed to the rescued victim, six members of the gang were killed during the encounter, while three others reportedly escaped into the bush.
Sources familiar with the operation said the arrival of the troops forced the kidnappers to abandon their position and flee as the soldiers advanced and engaged them.
The operation eventually led to the safe recovery of Tope, who had been held captive by the kidnappers.
The circumstances surrounding his abduction, including when and where he was initially kidnapped, were not immediately disclosed.
The military intervention has been welcomed as a significant development for residents of Igbaruku and other communities in Yagba West, an area that has faced security concerns involving kidnapping and other criminal activities.
The latest operation also underscores the importance of rapid security response to distress calls and intelligence concerning the activities of criminal groups in vulnerable communities.
Residents in affected areas have repeatedly called for sustained security operations, improved intelligence gathering and greater protection for rural communities vulnerable to attacks and abductions.
The Nigerian Army has continued to conduct security operations in different parts of the country as part of efforts to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other forms of criminality.
The successful rescue of Tope is expected to provide further impetus for ongoing efforts to strengthen security in Yagba West and surrounding communities.
Authorities are yet to provide further official details on the identities of the suspected kidnappers killed during the operation or the three alleged escapees.
The development was first reported by Egbe Mekun Parrot.
Source: Egbe Mekun Parrot
