Army rescues 13 kidnappers’ victims, arrest two suspects
Army rescues 13 kidnappers’ victims, arrest two suspects
Abdullateef Fowewe
The operatives of the Nigerian Army have in a series of strategic operations against terrorists struck a significant blow to terrorist networks, rescuing 13 kidnapped students (school name held) and seizing a large cache of weapons and ammunition.
During the operation, several insurgents were neutralised, and others were captured.
The troops according to a statement by the Army on Saturday while in a severe battle in Chigbolu village, Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, successfully overwhelmed the terrorists, which left them with no alternative but to abandon their captives.
While searching the kidnappers’ den, the troops rescued 13 individuals, six males and seven females, along with the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 87 rounds of 7.63mm ammunition, four magazines, a locally made rifle, and ₦192,220.00. Also, five solar panels, five mobile phones, dry rations and clothing items were seized.
The statement reads, ”On September 12, 2024, acting on credible intelligence, Nigerian Army troops in Kaduna State executed a meticulously planned operation to free abducted individuals from extremist camps. Engaging in a fierce battle in Chigbolu village, Kachia Local Government Area, the troops successfully overwhelmed the terrorists, forcing them to abandon their captives.
“A thorough search of the area led to the rescue of 13 individuals—6 males and 7 females—along with the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 87 rounds of 7.63mm ammunition, 4 magazines, a locally made rifle, and N192,220.00. Additionally, 5 solar panels, 5 mobile phones, dry rations, and clothing items were seized.
“The rescued victims have been taken to 1 Division Medical Services and Hospital for care.
In a separate operation, troops in Kachia Local Government Area apprehended two well-known terrorist logistics suppliers, Mallam Usman Waikili and Salisu Idris, at Kagarko village. The suspects were found in possession of N1,306,700.00, three SIM cards, 2 mobile phones, 3 national identity cards, 8 ATM cards, 2 Moniepoint POS machines, an MTN MiFi, and other items.”
In another successful operation in Suleja, Niger State, troops attacked a terrorist hideout, resulting in a fierce gunfight which led to the neutralisation of three suspected terrorists.
“The troops’ superior firepower led to the neutralization of 3 terrorists, with 3 additional suspects—identified as Mallam Halalu, Mallam Suleiman, and Mr. Musa—captured alive. The suspects guided the troops to a concealed armory, where 3 AK-47 rifles, 121 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and N4,079,000.00 were recovered.
“These successful operations highlight the Nigerian Army’s commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and rescuing those in danger. The Chief of Army Staff has praised the troops for their efforts and encouraged them to maintain their aggressive stance across all operational areas,” the statement added.
