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 arms and other items during a coordinated operation in Edo State.
According to an official statement, the operation followed a reported kidnapping incident at Ambrose Alli University on 13 July 2026.
The statement said troops, acting on credible intelligence and working closely with police personnel and local vigilantes, launched a coordinated pursuit of the fleeing suspects 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, resulting in the neutralisation of two of the suspects.
The sustained offensive forced other members of the gang to abandon their captives and flee the area, leading to the successful rescue of the three abducted victims without injuries.
Security operatives recovered three AK-47 rifles, 39 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, three mobile phones and two power banks during the operation.
The recovered weapons and other exhibits are in custody, while security agencies have intensified efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing members of the criminal syndicate.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to working with sister security agencies and other stakeholders to combat criminality and safeguard lives and property across the country.
It also urged members of the public to continue supporting security operations by providing credible and timely information on criminal hideouts and the activities of suspected collaborators.
