The Nigerian Army has rescued five kidnapped victims during ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Kogi State.
The victims were rescued on Wednesday by troops of the 12 Brigade under the 2 Division after terrorists abandoned them while fleeing sustained military pressure.
The Army said troops deployed from the Forward Operating Base, Oshokoshoko, intercepted the victims along the Oshokoshoko–Adankolo route in the Adankolo Forest.
The rescue followed recent air interdiction missions targeting terrorist hideouts in the area, which forced the criminals to flee their camps and abandon their captives.
According to the Army, vigilant troops intercepted the victims after they were left behind by the fleeing terrorists.
The victims were immediately evacuated to a military facility, where they received medical attention and were stabilised.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the victims had been abducted and held captive before being abandoned as the terrorists came under sustained military offensives.
The Army said the victims had since been debriefed and were providing useful information to support ongoing efforts to track down and dismantle the remaining terrorist networks operating in the area.
Commander of the 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism during the operation.
He assured residents that military operations would continue until lasting peace and security are restored, while urging members of the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information.