Troops rescue 19 kidnapped victims in Abuja, recover weapons

The Nigerian Army says its troops have rescued 19 kidnapped victims during a “coordinated search-and-rescue operation” around Gidan Dogo in the Bwari area council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a statement on Saturday, Olawuyi Itunuoluwa, acting assistant director of army public relations at the headquarters guards brigade, said the operation was carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and local vigilantes.

“The operation was launched following credible intelligence on the whereabouts of terrorists responsible for the recent abduction of residents from the Byazhin area of Bwari,” the statement reads.

“During the operation, troops made contact with the bandits, leading to a firefight in which one of the criminals was neutralised, while others fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.

“Further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and one locally fabricated firearm. Additionally, all 19 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued and evacuated to safety.”

Itunuoluwa added that the troops have returned to their base in Bwari, while the rescued victims are currently receiving attention.

“Troops will continue to dominate the general area to forestall further criminal activities,” he said.

Itunuoluwa said Adebisi Onasanya, the commander of the guards brigade, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their bravery and professionalism during the operation.

He added that the commander reiterated that the guards brigade remains resolute and fully committed to safeguarding residents of the FCT and protecting Abuja as the nation’s seat of power.

“The brigade will continue to intensify operations in collaboration with other security agencies to rid the territory and its environs of terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities,” he said.