The Nigerian Army has announced the rescue of 19 kidnapped victims after a security operation in the Bwari area council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The operation took place around Gidan Dogo. Troops carried it out alongside operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and members of local vigilante groups.
Olawuyi Itunuoluwa, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Guards Brigade, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday. He said security forces launched the mission after receiving intelligence about the location of the criminals linked to the abduction of residents from the Byazhin area of Bwari.
“The operation was launched following credible intelligence on the whereabouts of terrorists responsible for the recent abduction of residents from the Byazhin area of Bwari,” the statement reads.
The troops encountered the suspects during the operation. A gun battle followed. One of the attackers died during the clash, while others fled the area with suspected gunshot wounds.
“During the operation, troops made contact with the bandits, leading to a firefight in which one of the criminals was neutralised, while others fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.
“Further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and one locally fabricated firearm. Additionally, all 19 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued and evacuated to safety.”
Itunuoluwa said the troops have returned to their base in Bwari. The rescued victims are currently receiving care and attention.
“Troops will continue to dominate the general area to forestall further criminal activities,” he said.
He also disclosed that Adebisi Onasanya, Commander of the Guards Brigade, praised the troops and other security personnel who participated in the mission. The commander commended their courage and professionalism.
Itunuoluwa added that the Guards Brigade remains committed to protecting residents of the Federal Capital Territory and ensuring the safety of Abuja as the nation’s capital.
“The brigade will continue to intensify operations in collaboration with other security agencies to rid the territory and its environs of terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities,” he said.
