Army Kills 30 Kidnappers, Rescues 50 Hostages In Kwara Operation

The Nigerian Army has killed no fewer than 30 kidnappers and freed over 50 hostages during a major operation in Babasango community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Despite an ambush laid by the criminals, troops engaged them in a fierce gun battle that lasted from Sunday night through Monday morning, August 24–25, dislodging the kidnappers from their hideouts.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed the development in a statement issued Tuesday night, August 26. He noted that many of the freed victims are currently in Babanla and Shagbe communities.

“Also, a forest guard whom we initially feared dead during the encounter has since returned home safely,” Ajakaye said. “The operation forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives, many of whom escaped as the criminals fled for safety.”

He explained that while several of the kidnappers were killed, others managed to escape the onslaught, adding that the rescue marks a significant milestone in the state government’s ongoing efforts to stamp out banditry and kidnapping.

Community leaders in Babanla also confirmed that many escapees had been sighted in their villages following the operation.

“While a lot still needs to be done, this operation represents an appreciable success in the crackdown against these criminals. Security agencies will sustain the momentum until the kidnappers are completely flushed out of Kwara State,” Ajakaye added.