The rescued victims
Troops of the Joint Task Force North Central, operating under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, have rescued two kidnap victims in Kwara State following a swift patrol operation in a suspected criminal hideout.
The rescue occurred on June 3, 2026, when soldiers deployed at Patrol Base Babasango conducted a fighting patrol towards Gidan Dogo Ekaa. During the movement, the troops came across two men who had escaped from their abductors and were found within the general area.
The victims were identified as 42-year old Temitope Samuel and 40-year-old Mohammed Sani. They were immediately secured and placed under protective custody by the troops on arrival.
They were later moved to Patrol Base Babanla, where they are receiving medical attention, psychological care and other necessary support after their ordeal.
Military authorities said arrangements are ongoing to reunite both men with their families in the coming days.
The operation was carried out under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, a joint task force initiative designed to curb kidnapping, banditry and related violent crimes across parts of the North Central region.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustained intelligence-led operations aimed at restoring peace and security in affected communities, while urging residents to continue sharing timely and credible information to support ongoing military efforts.
The Army also commended the troops involved in the patrol for their professionalism and quick response, which ensured the safe recovery of the victims.
