Soldiers rescue two kidnap victims in Kwara
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nigerian Army troops rescued two kidnap victims during a clearance operation in Kwara State.
- The victims, identified as Mr. Temitope Samuel and Mr. Mohammed Sani, were found after escaping their captors.
- The military is continuing operations against criminal elements in the North Central region and urges public cooperation.
Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued two civilians who had been kidnapped in Kwara State. The rescue operation was conducted by the Joint Task Force North Central, Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.
In a decisive demonstration of operational prowess, troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North Central Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD (OPSS), deployed at Patrol Base Babasango, successfully rescued two civilians from the clutches of kidnappers in Kwara State.
The incident occurred during an aggressive fighting patrol along the Gidan Dogo Ekaa axis on June 3, 2026. Soldiers encountered the victims, Mr. Temitope Samuel, 42, and Mr. Mohammed Sani, 40, who had managed to escape from their captors' custody. The army stated that the rescued individuals were immediately taken into protective custody.
Following their rescue, the victims were transferred to Patrol Base Babasango, where they are currently receiving comprehensive medical care, psychological support, and other necessary assistance. The military has indicated that arrangements are being made to reunite them with their families.
On 3 June 2026, during an aggressive fighting patrol to Gidan Dogo Ekaa, the troops encountered and secured the victims who had daringly escaped their captorsโ custody.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property through sustained, intelligence-led operations under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD. They urged the public to continue providing credible information to support these security efforts in the North Central region.
The rescued individuals, Mr Temitope Samuel, 42, and Mr Mohammed Sani, 40, were immediately taken into protective custody by the troops and transferred to Patrol Base Babanla, where they are receiving comprehensive medical care, psychological support and all necessary assistance.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.