Army Rescues 21 Kidnap Victims in Joint Operation Across Kwara and Kogi

‎Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division and Sector 3 of Operation FANSAN YAMA have successfully rescued 21 kidnapped victims during a coordinated offensive that cut across Kwara and Kogi States.

‎The rescue operation, which took place on October 17, 2025, was carried out by personnel from the 12 Brigade, Lokoja and the 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin.

‎According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the victims were freed after an intensive military campaign that forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives.

‎The rescued individuals include 14 men, five women, one infant, and four Chinese nationals. Some of them were reportedly held in the kidnappers’ camps for over four months before their release.

‎“In a sustained effort to rid Kwara and neighbouring states of bandits and criminal elements, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMA rescued 21 kidnapped victims after coordinated attacks on the hideouts of the criminals,” the statement read.

‎The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, who personally supervised the operation, ensured that the victims received immediate medical care and basic relief items upon rescue.

‎He expressed sympathy to the victims, assuring them that the Army would sustain its momentum in tackling banditry and other forms of insecurity across the region.

‎“There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminals within our area of responsibility,” Major General Nnebeife vowed.

‎Lieutenant Colonel Okoye further confirmed that the victims were taken to a military medical facility for treatment. Many were reportedly weak and unable to walk due to exhaustion but are now responding to care and will be reunited with their families once fully recovered.

‎The GOC also appreciated the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for providing consistent aerial support and commended the cooperation of other security agencies in the joint operation. He praised the troops for their courage and urged them to maintain the tempo to restore lasting peace and security across Kwara, Kogi, and other neighbouring states.