Army Rescues Over 1,000 Kidnap Victims, Recovers Weapons in North-West Operations
ABUJA, Nigeria — The Nigerian Army has announced a major security milestone in its ongoing fight against banditry and abductions in the North-West geopolitical zone, reporting that more than 1,000 kidnapped victims have been rescued over an 18-month operational period under Operation Fasan Yamma.
Major General Ibikunle Ajose, the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division, disclosed the achievement at his farewell ceremony in Sokoto State, highlighting the sustained efforts of troops in disrupting criminal networks and restoring confidence among vulnerable communities.
According to Ajose, the operations also led to the recovery of hundreds of weapons and ammunition, and the disruption of bandit enclaves that had terrorised towns, villages and farmlands across the region.
“In 2025 alone, we recovered over 200 weapons, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and rescued more than 1,000 victims,” he said, emphasising the impact of continuous pressure on criminal hideouts and supply lines.
The general added that the successes contributed to restoring civilian confidence, enabling displaced residents to return to their homes and farmlands, particularly during the last farming season — a critical period for local livelihoods and food production.
The rescues form part of a broader military strategy to secure the North-West, where kidnapping and banditry have been persistent threats, leaving communities in fear and undermining economic activities. Civilian populations have long cited abductions and violent raids as major obstacles to normal life, forcing many into displacement and self-help arrangements.
Federal and state security officials have lauded the army’s achievements but acknowledge that sustained operations and coordination with other security agencies remain essential to consolidate gains and prevent a resurgence of criminal activity. Community leaders have also called for continued engagement and protection to fully restore trust and stability across affected areas.
As Major General Ajose hands over to his successor Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, military watchers say the focus will remain on intensifying targeted offensives, improving intelligence-led operations, and strengthening civil-military cooperation to continue rolling back kidnapping and banditry threats across the North-West and neighbouring fronts.
