Nigerian forces rescue 308 kidnap victims

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu announced Wednesday that security forces have rescued 308 people abducted in various attacks across the country's northern regions. The rescued individuals, who had been held captive for months, are now receiving medical care.

The operation successfully freed 163 people abducted from Woro community in Kwara state in February and 145 others, primarily from Niger state. Details of the large-scale rescue were not disclosed, but the president hailed it as the "largest rescue operation ever" undertaken by security forces in a single day.

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The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services.

Tinubu commended the "gallant men and women in uniform" for their bravery and commitment to safeguarding lives. He stated that the successful execution of this "intelligence-led operation" demonstrates the "growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services."

Abductions, often for ransom, are a persistent problem in Nigeria. Armed groups, referred to as bandits, frequently conduct raids and kidnappings in the northwest and north-central parts of the country. Authorities attribute these groups to former herders who have resorted to violence following resource-driven conflicts with farming communities. The country also faces a decade-long insurgency in its northeast.

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I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives.