In a successful operation, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division have successfully rescued 21 individuals who had been kidnapped in Kwara and Kogi States.

The rescue mission, which took place on Friday, was carried out by a coordinated effort between the 12 Brigade in Lokoja and the 22 Armoured Brigade in Ilorin, under the umbrella of Operation FANSAN YAMA.

According to a statement released on Saturday by Lt.-Col. Polcarp Okoye, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the victims had been abducted from various locations across the two states. Some had been held captive for over four months.

The army stated that the kidnappers were forced to release their captives due to intensified military offensives against them.

Upon their rescue, the victims, many of whom were physically weak and unable to walk without aid, were provided with first aid and relief items. They have since been evacuated to a military medical facility for treatment and are said to be responding well. They will be reunited with their families after a full recovery.

The General Officer Commanding the 2 Division, Major General CR Nnebeife, commended the troops and reaffirmed the army’s commitment to eliminating bandits and other criminal elements in the region. He also expressed appreciation for the support from the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies.