In a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry and kidnapping, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division/Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, have successfully rescued 21 kidnapped victims from criminal elements operating across Kwara and Kogi States.
The coordinated operations, carried out on 17 October 2025, by troops of the 12 Brigade Lokoja and 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin, led to the rescue of 14 males, 5 females, 1 infant, and 4 Chinese nationals.
The victims were reportedly abducted from different locations within the two states and had been held captive for varying periods, with some spending over four months in the kidnappers’ den.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division Nigerian Army, the successful rescue followed an intensified offensive by the troops, which forced the bandits to abandon their victims and flee their hideouts.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, personally coordinated the operations.
He ensured that the rescued victims were provided with immediate first aid, food, and other relief materials to aid their recovery from the trauma and torture they had endured.
Major General Nnebeife sympathized with the victims and assured them of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to sustaining the ongoing onslaught against bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements.
He emphasized that the Division would not relent until total peace and security were restored within its Area of Responsibility (AOR).
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its efforts to rid Kwara, Kogi, and neighboring states of all forms of criminality. There will be no hiding place for bandits and other lawless elements,” the GOC stated.
Following the operation, the rescued victims were evacuated to a military medical facility for comprehensive medical attention.
Many of them, who were reportedly too weak to walk due to extreme exhaustion, are said to be responding positively to treatment and will be reunited with their families upon full recovery.
Major General Nnebeife also appreciated the Nigerian Air Force for its continuous air support during the operations and commended other security agencies for their synergy in addressing the security challenges confronting the region.
He further lauded the gallantry and professionalism of the troops, urging the brigades to maintain the momentum in their ongoing operations aimed at restoring lasting peace across the 2 Division’s operational zones.
