The Nigerian Army, in a joint operation with the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups, has rescued three kidnapped victims, neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered three AK-47 rifles during a clearance operation in Edo State.
The Army disclosed that the operation followed a report of a kidnap incident at Ambrose Alli University on July 13, 2026.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops, alongside police personnel and local vigilantes, tracked the suspected kidnappers to their hideout in Esan Local Government Area of the state.
On reaching the location, the joint security team engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, during which two of the suspects were neutralised. The remaining members of the gang reportedly fled the scene under sustained pressure from the security operatives, abandoning their captives.
The Army confirmed that all three kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed.
Security operatives also recovered three AK-47 rifles, 39 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, three mobile phones and two power banks from the scene.
The recovered items are in custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling insecurity, the Nigerian Army said it would continue to work closely with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to rid the country of criminal elements and protect lives and property.
Nigerian Army also urged members of the public to support ongoing operations by providing credible information on criminal hideouts and the activities of their collaborators.
