Troops Neutralise Notorious Kidnap Kingpin in Daring Night Raid, Rescue Four Abducted Victims in Edo Forest

 In a decisive operation that has dealt a significant blow to kidnapping syndicates terrorising parts of Edo State, troops of the Nigerian Army's 4 Brigade under 2 Division, working in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps, have neutralised a notorious kidnapper and successfully rescued four victims who had been held captive in a forest hideout.

The breakthrough came during a night patrol on March 3, 2026, as part of Operation IGBO DANU 1 in the dense Warake Forest, located in the Auchi area of Etsako West Local Government Area (with some reports indicating links to Owan East). Troops responded swiftly to reports of gunshots echoing through the forest, launching a rapid pursuit that led to a fierce gun battle with the armed group.

According to a statement from the Nigerian Army, the gallant troops engaged the criminals, who opened fire upon sighting the security forces. In the intense exchange, a suspected kidnap kingpin—described as a notorious figure who had long terrorised Auchi and surrounding communities—was neutralised. The superior firepower of the troops forced the remaining gang members to flee into the thick vegetation, abandoning their captives and camp in disarray.

Four victims, who had been abducted and held for several days, were rescued unharmed during the encounter. They have been identified as:

Stella Abbas, 29 years old

Tina Ododa, 19 years old

Razak Rashid, 27 years old

Mutanibi Kalifa, 16 years old

All four were reported to be in stable condition and were promptly reunited with their relieved families following medical checks and debriefing.

In related operations across the state—including areas such as Ujemen in Esan West Local Government Area—security forces arrested a suspected kidnapper believed to be a key figure or informant linked to the syndicate.

The successful mission underscores the ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army and local security outfits to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes in Edo State, where forest hideouts have increasingly been used by criminal elements to hold victims for ransom.

Military authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustaining such proactive operations to restore peace and security in the region. Residents in affected areas have welcomed the development, with many expressing hope that it will deter further abductions.

No further details on the identity of the neutralised kidnapper or the arrested suspect have been released at this time, as investigations continue. The Army has urged the public to provide credible information on criminal activities to aid ongoing security efforts.