By Joe Udo
ILORIN (CONVERSEER) – Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 21 kidnapped victims during coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi States as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the region.
The operation, carried out on 17 October 2025 by troops of 2 Division/Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, involved personnel from the 12 Brigade Lokoja and 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin. The victims, comprising 14 males, 5 females, 1 infant and 4 Chinese nationals, were freed after sustained military pressure forced the bandits to release their captives.
According to a military statement, the victims had been abducted from different locations in Kwara and Kogi States. Some had been held in captivity for more than four months before their rescue.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, who coordinated the operation, ensured that the rescued individuals received first aid and relief materials to aid their recovery from prolonged torture in the hands of their abductors.
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Major General Nnebeife expressed sympathy for the victims and assured that the military remains determined to sustain its onslaught against bandits and other criminal groups. “There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminals within the Division’s Area of Responsibility,” he stated.
The victims were immediately taken to a military medical facility for treatment. Many of them, who were weak and unable to walk due to exhaustion, are reported to be responding to medical care and will be reunited with their families upon full recovery.
The GOC commended the Nigerian Air Force for its continued air support, as well as other security agencies for their collaboration in combating insecurity in the region. He further praised the troops for their efforts.
He directed the brigades to sustain the tempo of operations to restore peace and stability across Kwara, Kogi and neighbouring states within the Division’s operational jurisdiction.
The operation is part of the Nigerian Army’s wider strategy to secure communities and dismantle criminal strongholds through coordinated land and air offensives.
