Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division and Sector 3 of Operation FANSAN YAMA have rescued 21 kidnapped victims during a coordinated operation across Kwara and Kogi States. The operation, carried out on October 17, 2025, is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate bandits and criminal groups in the region.
According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, the rescue was conducted by troops from the 12 Brigade, Lokoja, and the 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin. The victims include 14 men, five women, one infant, and four Chinese nationals who were abducted from various locations in both states.
The victims were freed after intensified military offensives forced the bandits to abandon their captives. Some of the victims had been held for more than four months. They were immediately given first aid and other relief supplies to aid recovery from their ordeal.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander of Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, expressed sympathy for the victims and assured that the army will continue its operations until all criminal groups are dismantled. “There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminals within our area of responsibility,” he said.
The rescued victims have been taken to a military medical facility for treatment. Many were reported to be weak from exhaustion but are responding to care and will be reunited with their families once fully recovered.
Major General Nnebeife also commended the Nigerian Air Force for providing sustained air support and thanked other security agencies for their cooperation. He praised the troops for their bravery and directed them to maintain the momentum of operations aimed at restoring peace across Kwara, Kogi, and neighboring states.
