In a major victory against banditry, the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 21 kidnapped victims, including four Chinese nationals, following a coordinated security operation across Kwara and Kogi States.
The daring rescue took place on October 17, 2025, under the command of troops from 2 Division/Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMA, in collaboration with the 12 Brigade (Lokoja) and the 22 Armoured Brigade (Ilorin).
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the rescued individuals include:
- 14 males
- 5 females
- 1 infant
- 4 Chinese nationals
The victims were reportedly abducted at different times and locations within the two states. Their release was said to have been prompted by the Army’s intensified offensive operations and sustained pressure on the kidnappers’ hideouts. Some of the victims had been held captive for over four months before their freedom was secured.
The operation was personally supervised by Major General C.R. Nnebeife, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander, Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMA, who ensured that the rescued individuals received immediate first aid and relief materials to recover from their ordeal.
Lt. Col. Okoye disclosed that several of the victims were found weak and unable to walk due to prolonged starvation and trauma. They have since been evacuated to a military medical facility for urgent treatment and will be reunited with their families upon full recovery.
In his remarks, Major General Nnebeife sympathized with the rescued victims and reaffirmed the Army’s determination to stamp out criminality across the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
“There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminal elements within our operational zone,” the GOC vowed, commending the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies for their continuous collaboration and support.
He further directed the involved brigades to sustain the current momentum until total peace and security are restored across Kwara, Kogi, and neighboring states.
This rescue operation marks another strong statement of the Nigerian Army’s renewed drive to protect citizens and dismantle criminal networks across the North-Central region.
Source: NupekoTV – Lafiagi
Published by: Okun Reporters
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