15 NYSC members rescued in Kogi recount ordeal in kidnappers’ forest hideout [VIDEO]

The 15 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members rescued from kidnappers in Kogi State have recounted their harrowing experience after spending days in captivity.

The corps members were among 21 victims rescued by Nigerian troops from the Egume-Ochaja forest in Dekina Local Government Area of the state on Monday, August 31.

The rescued victims comprised eight males and 13 females, including the 15 NYSC members who were travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State when they were reportedly abducted by armed men.

The victims were rescued following a coordinated security operation targeting suspected kidnappers operating in the forest and along the route.

Journey Turns Into Kidnapping Ordeal

The NYSC members were reportedly travelling to Bayelsa State to commence or continue their national service when their journey was interrupted by the attackers.

What began as a routine trip from Abuja turned into a frightening ordeal as the travellers were taken into the forest and held captive.

Following the abduction, security agencies launched efforts to locate the victims and secure their release.

The Defence Headquarters said the rescue formed part of ongoing military operations aimed at freeing persons abducted along the route and dismantling criminal networks responsible for attacks on travellers.

The operation eventually led troops to the Egume-Ochaja forest, where the victims were located and rescued.

21 Victims Regain Freedom

A total of 21 kidnapped persons were freed during the operation.

The rescued group included eight male and 13 female victims, with the NYSC members making up the majority of those rescued.

The victims were subsequently moved to safety as authorities continued efforts to provide necessary support following their ordeal.

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One of the rescued male victims sustained a gunshot injury during the incident and was evacuated for medical treatment.

The successful operation has provided relief to the families of the victims, particularly those who had spent days without knowing the whereabouts or condition of their relatives.

Military Vows Sustained Operations

The Defence Headquarters said security operations would continue along the affected corridor as part of efforts to prevent further abductions and rescue other victims who may still be held by criminal elements.

The military has also vowed to sustain pressure on kidnappers operating in forests and other hideouts in the area.

The rescue highlights the continuing security challenges facing travellers along some major routes linking northern and southern parts of the country, where criminal gangs have increasingly targeted motorists and passengers.

For the rescued NYSC members, their return to freedom brings an end to a traumatic chapter as authorities continue efforts to strengthen security along the route and prevent similar incidents.

The operation also underscores the importance of sustained intelligence gathering, inter-agency cooperation and rapid response in tackling kidnapping and other forms of violent crime across the country.

Rescued NYSC Members Recount Ordeal in Kogi Kidnappers’ Den

The 15 NYSC members rescued from kidnappers in Kogi State have begun recounting their ordeal after regaining their freedom.

The corps members were among 21 victims rescued by security forces from the Egume-Ochaja forest in Dekina Local Government Area of the state on Monday, August 31.

The victims, comprising eight males and 13 females, were abducted last week while travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State.

Their rescue followed a coordinated operation by the Nigerian military and other security and local groups targeting kidnappers operating along the route.

The Defence Headquarters confirmed the operation, saying it was part of ongoing efforts to rescue victims abducted along the Abuja-Bayelsa route and other vulnerable corridors.

The military has vowed to sustain operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements in the area.

One of the rescued male victims reportedly sustained a gunshot wound during the abduction and was evacuated for medical treatment.

The successful rescue has provided relief to the families and associates of the victims, while security agencies continue efforts to track down those responsible for the mass abduction