Nigerian Army Rescues Two Hostages, Arrests Eight in Kwara State Anti-Kidnapping Raid
Troops from the 22 Armoured Brigade in Kwara State rescued two victims and arrested eight suspects in a raid on a kidnappers' hideout near Latandaji Village. One suspect injured and under treatment.
Enet
ILORIN, Nigeria — In a decisive operation to curb criminal activities in Kwara State, troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Patigi have successfully rescued two kidnapped victims and arrested eight suspected kidnappers during a raid conducted on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
The military operation, based on actionable intelligence, targeted a known kidnappers’ hideout on the outskirts of Latandaji Village, in the Patigi Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the troops executed a tactical strike and met little resistance, quickly securing the area through superior firepower and strategy.
Two Victims Rescued, One Suspect Injured
The raid led to the rescue of two victims identified as Mr. Amos Moses and Mr. Philip Michael, who were safely extracted from captivity.
One of the suspects, Mr. Mohammed Mohammed, sustained gunshot wounds during a brief exchange of fire and was immediately transported to Bachita Teaching Hospital for treatment. The remaining eight suspects were arrested and are currently in military custody pending further investigation.
Weapons and Motorcycles Recovered
A search of the hideout led to the recovery of two motorcycles and two spent cartridge shells, which military officials believe were used during the initial kidnapping or during the confrontation with the troops.
All suspects are being interrogated and will be handed over to the relevant law enforcement authorities for prosecution and legal action.
Army Urges Community Cooperation
In his statement, Lt. Nwankwo reiterated the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to securing lives and property in the region and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
“This operation underscores our resolve to dismantle criminal networks and bring peace to every community we operate in,” he said.
The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to combat kidnappings and other violent crimes across the country as part of its broader security strategy.
Issued by:
STEPHEN NWANKWO
Lieutenant
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations
22 Brigade, Ilorin
Date: June 22, 2025
