The Nigerian Navy has rescued 13 kidnapped victims and arrested six suspected drug peddlers in seperate operations in Kogi and Rivers, disrupting criminal activities in both locations.
In Kogi State, the Navy, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante personnel, successfully rescued the victims along the Itobe–Anyigba Highway in Ofu Local Government Area on 10 August 2026.
According to a statement issued by Naval spokesman, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, the coordinated search and rescue operation was mounted following a reported kidnapping incident, with the victims subsequently placed under the care of relevant security authorities for screening and necessary assistance.
The joint team, however, encountered resistance from suspected kidnappers, leading to the death of one vigilante personnel while a police personnel sustained a gunshot injury and was evacuated for medical attention.
Security operations have since been intensified in the general area as efforts continue to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
In a separate operation in Rivers State, personnel of Forward Operating Base Bonny, working with the NDLEA Bonny Area Command, arrested six suspected drug peddlers during an intelligence-driven operation at Amahausa, Bonny Local Government Area.
He said the operation also led to the recovery of various illicit substances, including 250 tablets of Exol 5, 117 wraps of Cannabis Sativa, 50 wraps of methamphetamine, 70 wraps of heroin, 8 capsules of 100mg Tramadol, 3 packs of Cannabis Sativa and one methamphetamine pipe.
According to the statement, the two operations underscored the Nigerian Navy’s growing operational impact through intelligence-led action, rapid response and effective inter-agency cooperation.
Folorunsho added that the successful operations also demonstrated the Service’s commitment to denying criminal elements freedom of action, protecting lives and supporting broader national efforts to strengthen security across Nigeria’s communities and maritime environment.
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