Joint security forces including the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), and other auxiliary agencies—have rescued 15 corps members abducted in Egume Forest, Ofu Local Government Area, Kogi State.
The rescue was the result of a sustained, intelligence-led operation focused on securing the victims’ safe release, dismantling criminal networks, and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, announced at a news conference in Abuja that the corps members were freed following a coordinated security effort. He emphasized that operations in the area are ongoing, with security personnel intensifying efforts to locate the remaining abductees and apprehend those responsible.
General Onoja appealed to residents and travellers in the affected communities to report any suspicious activity or information that could assist in finding the remaining victims and tracking down the kidnappers.
In the wake of the rescue, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede has directed security forces to maintain pressure on kidnapping syndicates operating in Kogi State, particularly after the abduction of corps members travelling from Bayelsa to Abuja.
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police commended the professionalism, courage, and resilience of the personnel involved in the operation. He also expressed gratitude for the support and timely information provided by residents, noting its critical role in the ongoing success of the mission.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm, vigilant, and proactive in reporting any information that could help security efforts. The Command assured residents that all available resources are being deployed to ensure the safe recovery of those still missing and bring the perpetrators to justice. Further updates will be provided as the operation progresses.
Last Friday, police reported the rescue of 11 individuals including an unspecified number of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members—after gunmen attacked vehicles on the Aloma–Egane Expressway.
The abduction occurred at approximately 4:40 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, near Ogene Zaria, close to the Ogene Zaria–Onicha-Igo Junction. According to the Kogi State Police Command, armed men blocked two buses, abducted some passengers, while others managed to escape into the surrounding forest.
