Troops Rescue Five Kidnap Victims in Kogi, Kill Suspected Militia Member in Plateau
Troops of the Nigerian military have rescued five kidnapped victims in Kogi State and arrested a suspected militia member during separate security operations in Plateau State, as security forces intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks and protect vulnerable communities.
In Kogi, troops of Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), working with hybrid forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), rescued the five victims during an offensive operation in Yagba Local Government Area.
Security sources said the operation was launched at about 1:45 a.m. on October 16, 2026, from the Forward Operating Base in Isanlu-Esa, targeting suspected kidnappers’ hideouts around Okoloke and Isanlu-Esa.
The troops reportedly engaged the suspected kidnappers, forcing them to flee and abandon their captives. The five victims were subsequently rescued and reunited with their families.
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In a separate operation in Plateau State, troops of Sector 4 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) arrested a suspected militia member and neutralised another during a raid on Lugere Village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
According to security sources, the operation took place at about 4:12 a.m. on October 17, 2026. The troops arrested one suspected militia member and recovered a motorcycle during the raid.
Another suspected member of the group was reportedly neutralised after attempting to escape.
The arrested suspect is undergoing further interrogation and investigation to obtain information that could help security forces identify and apprehend other members of the suspected militia network.
The two operations form part of ongoing military efforts to disrupt kidnapping and armed-group activities, rescue abducted persons and strengthen security in communities affected by criminal violence.
Security forces are expected to sustain intelligence-led operations to track fleeing suspects, dismantle their networks and prevent further attacks in the affected areas.
By PRNigeria
