Troops rescue 21 kidnapped victims, including four Chinese nationals, in Kwara, Kogi
Troops of the 2 Division, Nigerian Army, have rescued 21 kidnapped victims, including four Chinese nationals, during coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi states.
A statement signed on Saturday by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, said the rescue followed intensified offensives by troops under Operation FANSAN YAMA on 17 October 2025.
According to the statement, the combined efforts of troops from 12 Brigade, Lokoja, and 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, led to the freedom of 14 men, five women, one infant, and four Chinese nationals. The victims were abducted from various locations in Kwara and Kogi and had been held captive, some for over four months.
The bandits reportedly released the captives after coming under heavy pressure from advancing troops. The rescued persons have since been provided with first aid and relief support coordinated by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander, Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C. R. Nnebeife.
Major General Nnebeife expressed sympathy for the victims and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining its offensive against all criminal elements. He vowed that there would be no hiding place for bandits within the Division’s area of responsibility.
The rescued victims were evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment. Many, who were weak and exhausted after months in captivity, are said to be responding well to medical care and will be reunited with their families upon full recovery.
The GOC commended the Nigerian Air Force for its continuous air support throughout the operations and lauded other security agencies for their collaboration in tackling insecurity across the region.
He also praised the gallantry of the troops and directed field commanders to sustain the tempo of operations to ensure lasting peace and security across Kwara, Kogi, and adjoining states within the Division’s operational area.
