The Kogi State Government has commended security forces for rescuing 21 people abducted along the Alloma–Ejule–Itobe road in Dekina Local Government Area of the state.
The government described the operation as a major demonstration of effective intelligence gathering, tactical coordination and cooperation among security agencies and local security groups.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the state government said the successful rescue reflected the determination of the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to intensify the fight against kidnapping and other forms of criminality.
The victims, comprising eight males and 13 females, were rescued on Monday by troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, local hunters and vigilante groups.
The operation followed reports of the abduction of road users along the Alloma–Ejule–Itobe axis.
Acting on credible intelligence, the security teams launched a coordinated search of the Egume and Ochaja forest areas, where they located and rescued all 21 victims.
One of the rescued male victims sustained a gunshot injury during the incident and was immediately evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
Governor Usman Ododo expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for supporting and equipping the nation’s security forces to confront violent crimes.
He also commended the leadership and personnel of the various security agencies involved in the operation, including the National Security Adviser, Chief of Army Staff, Inspector-General of Police and Director-General of the Department of State Services.
The governor extended the commendation to the Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff, Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and local security operatives who participated in the rescue mission.
Ododo said the successful operation demonstrated the capacity of security agencies to respond effectively when intelligence is properly coordinated and acted upon.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to strengthen cooperation between conventional security agencies and local security structures to improve the protection of lives and property across Kogi State.
The governor also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible and timely information that could assist in preventing kidnappings and other criminal activities.
He stressed that sustained cooperation between residents and security personnel remains essential to strengthening security and protecting communities across the state.
