Nigerian Army Rescues Four Kidnap Victims, Neutralizes Bandit in Plateau Ambush

Published on 13 December 2025 at 11:04

Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division, operating under Operation Lafiyan Jama’a, successfully rescued four abducted individuals and neutralized one kidnapper during a precision ambush in Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State. The operation, conducted in the early hours of Friday, underscores the military’s continued commitment to tackling kidnapping and banditry in the region.

Sources familiar with the operation told Zagazola Makama that the intervention followed credible intelligence regarding the abduction of four persons in Rimi village, Jere District of Bassa LGA. Acting swiftly, Sector 1 troops of Operation Lafiyan Jama’a deployed from Jingre and established a targeted ambush along the suspected withdrawal route of the kidnappers.

At approximately 3:28 a.m., the troops engaged the bandits in a gunfight. The sources explained that the encounter forced the kidnappers to abandon their victims and retreat. “During the operation, the troops made contact with the kidnappers and exchanged fire, forcing them to abandon the four victims and flee,” a source noted.

Following the firefight, soldiers combed the area and recovered the body of a kidnapper neutralized during the ambush. Additionally, security operatives seized one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition from the fleeing criminals.

The rescued individuals were subsequently debriefed and reunited with their families, providing relief to the local community. Security sources confirmed that no casualties were recorded on the side of the troops, and morale and operational readiness remain high.

Authorities indicated that efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the remaining members of the kidnap gang, reinforcing the military’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks in Plateau State. The operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led deployments and targeted ambushes in combating kidnappings, which continue to pose serious security challenges in the North-Central region.

Analysts say such operations serve as both a deterrent to criminals and a reassurance to communities affected by insecurity. The successful rescue and neutralization highlight the importance of timely intelligence, coordination, and tactical precision in countering banditry and ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations.

The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, emphasizing that collaboration with local communities and timely intelligence sharing are critical to sustaining operational successes across the state and beyond.

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