By John Moses
Troops from Nigeria’s 22 Armoured Brigade, operating out of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Patigi, successfully rescued two kidnapped individuals and apprehended eight suspected kidnappers during a tactical mission in Kwara State.
The Nigerian Army disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by Lieutenant Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the brigade.
The military operation, carried out on Saturday, was based on credible intelligence indicating the location of a criminal hideout near Latandaji Village in Patigi Local Government Area.
“Troops launched a well-coordinated offensive and encountered mild resistance, which was swiftly overcome with superior firepower,” Nwankwo reported.
During the mission, two hostages—identified as Amos Moses and Philip Michael—were freed. Eight individuals suspected of involvement in kidnapping were detained at the scene.
One of the suspects, identified as Mohammed Mohammed, suffered a gunshot wound during the confrontation and is currently receiving medical treatment, the Army spokesperson confirmed.
In the course of further operations, troops also recovered two motorcycles and two expended shotgun cartridges believed to have been used by the assailants.
“All suspects remain in military custody pending preliminary investigations, after which they will be transferred to appropriate law enforcement agencies for prosecution,” Nwankwo stated.
He emphasised the Nigerian Army’s ongoing dedication to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of civilians, calling on the public to continue supplying reliable intelligence to security agencies.
