Army, Police Rescue Three Kidnap Victims, Kill Two Terrorists in Edo

The Nigerian Army, in a joint operation with the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups, has rescued three kidnapped victims, neutralised two suspected terrorists and recovered weapons during a clearance operation in Edo State.

The operation followed a report of a kidnapping incident at Ambrose Alli University on July 13, 2026. Acting on credible intelligence, troops, alongside police personnel and local vigilantes, tracked the fleeing suspects to their hideout in Esan Local Government Area of the state.

Security sources said the joint team engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the death of two of the suspects. The remaining members of the gang reportedly fled under sustained military pressure, abandoning their captives.

The three abducted victims were rescued unharmed during the operation.

Items recovered from the scene included three AK-47 rifles, 39 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, three mobile phones and two power banks.

The recovered exhibits are in security custody, while efforts are underway to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining joint operations with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to combat terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.

The Army also urged members of the public to continue supporting security operations by providing credible intelligence on criminal hideouts and the activities of their collaborators.