Troops Rescue 19 Kidnap Victims, Neutralise Bandit In Abuja Operation

Troops Rescue 19 Kidnap Victims, Neutralise Bandit In Abuja Operation
One suspected bandit killed during operation.
Security forces recover AK-47 rifle.

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 19 kidnapped residents and neutralised a suspected bandit during a coordinated security operation in Gidan Dogo within the Federal Capital Territory.

The operation followed credible intelligence about the hideout of suspected terrorists linked to the recent abduction of residents in the Byazhin area of Abuja.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the development was confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Olawuyi Itunuoluwa.

According to the statement, troops of the 7 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army’s Guards Brigade, working in collaboration with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups, carried out a coordinated search-and-rescue mission that resulted in the successful rescue of the kidnapped victims. During the operation, security forces reportedly encountered the criminals, which led to a fierce gun battle between the troops and the suspected bandits.

“Troops of the 7 Guards Battalion, Guards Brigade, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes, successfully rescued 19 kidnapped victims during a coordinated search and rescue operation,” the statement said.

It added that one of the criminals was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while other members of the gang fled the area with suspected gunshot wounds. Following the confrontation, security forces conducted a thorough search of the surrounding forest and nearby locations, which led to the recovery of weapons believed to have been used by the criminals.

The items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle and a locally fabricated firearm. Security sources said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle kidnapping networks operating within and around the nation’s capital.

Reacting to the success of the mission, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Adebisi Onasanya, commended the troops and other security agencies involved in the operation.

He praised their bravery, professionalism, and swift response during the rescue effort. Onasanya also reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to protecting residents of Abuja and maintaining security in the Federal Capital Territory.

Troops Rescue 19 Kidnap Victims, Neutralise Bandit In Abuja Operation

He stated that the Guards Brigade remains fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s capital and protecting it as the seat of government. The Army further assured residents that troops would continue aggressive patrols and intensified security operations in the area to prevent further criminal activities.