- The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 19 residents held captive by terrorists following a strategic raid in the Gidan Dogo area of Bwari Area Council, Federal Capital Territory.
- During the operation, troops neutralised one bandit in a fierce gun battle, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds, leaving behind an AK-47 rifle and a locally fabricated firearm.
- The rescue mission follows intelligence reports linking the criminal group to the recent high-profile abduction of residents in the Byazhin area.
The Nigerian Army in Abuja confirmed the rescue of 19 kidnapped victims on Saturday, March 7, 2026 and neutrality of the bandit.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the operation, conducted by the 7 Guards Battalion of the Guards Brigade in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes, targeted a known terrorist stronghold in Gidan Dogo, Bwari.
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The swift intervention has provided much-needed relief to families whose loved ones were snatched during a recent raid in Byazhin.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Olawuyi Itunuoluwa, the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the location of the gang. Upon arrival, the security forces engaged the bandits in a heavy firefight.
While one criminal was neutralised at the scene, others managed to flee into the thick vegetation, though many are suspected to have sustained gunshot injuries.
A subsequent sweep of the area led to the recovery of lethal weaponry, including an AK-47 rifle.
Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, Commander of the Guards Brigade, hailed the bravery and seamless synergy between the various security agencies involved.
He reassured residents of the FCT that the Brigade remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting the nation’s seat of power.
The successful mission is seen as a major blow to the kidnapping syndicates that have recently attempted to infiltrate the outskirts of Abuja.
The Army has pledged to maintain a strong presence in the general area to prevent any regrouping of criminal elements.
Operations are expected to intensify across the territory’s borders to ensure that the FCT and its environs are completely purged of terrorists and kidnappers.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and support before being reunited with their families.
