NIGERIAN ARMY RESCUES 21 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS, INCLUDING FOUR CHINESE NATIONALS, IN SUSTAINED OFFENSIVE

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division have rescued twenty-one kidnapped victims, including four Chinese nationals, following a sustained onslaught against criminal elements in Kwara and neighboring states. The rescue operation was carried out on October 17, 2025, by forces from 12 Brigade Lokoja and 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin, part of Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMA.

The Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, confirmed the development in a statement. The rescued individuals comprise fourteen males, five females, one infant, and the four Chinese nationals. The victims disclosed that they had been abducted from various locations across Kwara and Kogi States. Following the troops’ intensified offensive, the bandits were compelled to release their captives, some of whom had been held for over four months.

The General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General CR Nnebeife, has been coordinating the operations. Nnebeife ensured the freed victims were provided with necessary first aid and other relief items to assist their recovery from the torture they endured. He further sympathised with the victims, reassuring that the Division remains committed to sustaining the ongoing onslaught. “There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminals within the Division’s Area of Responsibility,” Major General Nnebeife stated.

The rescued victims were immediately evacuated to a military medical facility for attention. Most were physically weak and unable to walk without aid due to extreme exhaustion but are now responding to treatment. They will be reunited with their families upon full recovery. Nnebeife also appreciated the Nigerian Air Force for its continuous air support and thanked other security agencies for their synergy. The GOC commended the troops’ efforts and directed the Brigades to maintain the operational tempo to restore peace and security across Kwara, Kogi, and adjoining states.