Nigerian Army Conducts Multi-State Operations to Rescue Abductees and Arrest Criminals
The Nigerian Army has carried out a series of coordinated operations across multiple states, resulting in the rescue of 31 individuals abducted by criminals, the arrest of 17 suspects, and the recovery of two pump-action guns along with five rounds of ammunition. These operations took place within the last 24 hours and were part of sustained offensive efforts aimed at combating criminal activities and protecting local communities.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Army highlighted that these results followed continuous operations that forced criminal elements to abandon their victims and flee, allowing troops to secure positions and safeguard the population.
Rescues in Zamfara State
In Zamfara State, troops from the 1 Brigade Combat Team 5 at Forward Operating Base Moriki, in collaboration with local hunters, responded to a distress call regarding the kidnapping of residents from Kadage Village in Maradun Local Government Area.
Upon sighting the troops, the kidnappers abandoned 25 kidnapped victims and fled. The victims were successfully rescued, and the area was secured without further contact. All rescued individuals were safely reunited with their families in Moriki town.
Arrests in Delta State
In Delta State, troops from the 63 Brigade acted on intelligence to arrest a suspected cultist and kidnapper terrorizing Ezuokwu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area, along with 11 accomplices.
Subsequent raids in Ite-Ego Community led to the arrest of a herbalist and the recovery of two pump-action guns and five cartridges. Additionally, a suspected drug peddler was apprehended with crystal methamphetamine (ice), smoking pipes, and Indian hemp. All suspects and exhibits are currently in military custody for further action.
Rescues and Discoveries in Kogi State
In Kogi State, troops from the 12 Brigade conducted patrols from Obajana and Kabba bases to Ankomi Village and Adankolo in Lokoja Local Government Area, rescuing five kidnapped victims from abandoned settlements.
During the exploitation of the area, two decomposed bodies were discovered. One has been evacuated, while efforts are ongoing to recover the other.
The brigade also responded to a road blockage along Ayere–Kabba Road in Ijumu Local Government Area on 31 December 2025. Troops engaged suspected violent extremists who fled into the bushes, rescued an injured driver, recovered his vehicle, and evacuated him to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba. Patrols continue to dominate the route.
Arrests in Kaduna and Nasarawa States
In Kaduna State, Sector 5 of Operation Enduring Peace apprehended a suspected kidnapper at Jagindi Kagom Village in Jema’a Local Government Area on 1 January 2026. Similarly, in Nasarawa State, troops of Sector 2, Operation Whirl Stroke, arrested two suspected kidnappers in Kadarko, Keana Local Government Area, handing them over to the Nigerian Police for prosecution.
Rescue in Taraba State
In Taraba State, troops of Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke, responded to a kidnapping incident at the Abong general area of Kurmi Local Government Area and successfully rescued one kidnapped victim, who has since been reunited with his family.
Commitment to National Security
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Nigerian Army said it remains “unwavering in its commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.” Through timely intelligence, joint community efforts, and sustained offensive operations, troops will continue to deny criminals freedom of action.
The Army urged citizens to provide credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts in maintaining safety and order.