On May 6, 2026, troops from the Nigerian Army's 12 Brigade successfully recovered nine kidnapped victims and stopped a terrorist logistical movement in separate but well-coordinated operations in Kogi State.

While announcing the operation on Thursday, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, a spokesman, stated that the five boys, two girls, and two adult ladies who were rescued were thought to be the wives of the owner of the orphanage that was recently attacked in the state.

He said, “In a major breakthrough under Operation Tiger Paw II, troops successfully rescued the remaining kidnapped victims from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage following sustained search and rescue efforts.

Troops from the brigade's blocking force intercepted and recovered the victims in the Agbaja Forest general area in Lokoja Local Government Area by acting on reliable intelligence and applying constant operational pressure.

“The rescued victims comprised five boys, two girls, and two adult females, believed to be the wives of the proprietor of the orphanage.

“They were promptly evacuated to the 12th Brigade Medical Centre, where they received immediate medical attention and first aid. All victims are reported to be in stable condition.

“In a related development on the same day, troops acting on credible intelligence on the activities of an arms and ammunition syndicate intercepted and apprehended a suspected terrorist ammunition courier along the Obajana–Lokoja road in the Lokoja Local Government Area.

Source