Nigerian Army Rescues Kidnap Victims, Kills Two Suspected Terrorists in Edo State Raid
By Dike Godspower
The Nigerian Army, working alongside the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups, has rescued three kidnapped victims and killed two suspected terrorists during a joint security operation in Edo State.
The operation followed reports of a kidnapping involving students near Ambrose Alli University on July 13, 2026. Acting on credible intelligence, security operatives quickly launched a coordinated pursuit of the suspected kidnappers, tracing them to a hideout in Esan Local Government Area.
According to the Army, troops, police officers, and vigilantes engaged the armed suspects in a fierce gun battle after making contact with the gang. Two of the suspected terrorists were killed during the exchange, while the remaining members fled into nearby bushes under heavy pressure from the security team.
The three kidnapped victims were successfully rescued without injuries after the fleeing suspects abandoned them during the operation.
Security personnel also recovered three AK-47 rifles, 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three mobile phones, and two power banks believed to belong to the criminal group. The recovered weapons and other items are now in the custody of security agencies as investigations continue.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the escaped members of the gang.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with other security agencies and local communities to combat kidnapping, terrorism, and other violent crimes across the country. It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information that could help security forces identify criminal hideouts and arrest those involved in violent activities.
The latest operation adds to ongoing efforts by security agencies to strengthen safety in Edo State and other parts of Nigeria facing threats from kidnappers and armed criminal groups
