In a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and banditry, troops of the 2 Division/Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, have successfully rescued 21 kidnapped victims during a high-intensity military operation across parts of Kwara and Kogi States on October 17, 2025.
The operation, meticulously coordinated under the directive of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA, Major General C.R. Nnebeife, involved the combined efforts of 12 Brigade, Lokoja and 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin. The offensive, executed with precision and intelligence-led tactics, dealt a significant blow to the criminal networks terrorizing communities along the Kwara-Kogi axis.
Among those rescued were 14 males, 5 females, 1 infant, and 4 Chinese nationals who had been abducted from various locations across the two states. Some of the victims disclosed that they had been held captive for over four months in remote forest hideouts before the sustained military onslaught forced their captors to abandon them and flee.
Following their liberation, the victims were immediately provided with medical attention, first aid, and relief materials, while arrangements were made for comprehensive health evaluations at a military medical facility. Reports indicate that all rescued individuals are responding positively to treatment and will soon be reunited with their families.
Speaking on the successful operation, Major General Nnebeife commended the troops for their professionalism, discipline, and gallantry in executing the mission without casualties. He reiterated the Army’s unwavering commitment to neutralizing criminal elements and restoring lasting peace across the region.
“There will be no hiding place for bandits and other criminal elements within our operational area,” the GOC affirmed.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its determination to safeguard lives and property and to ensure that law-abiding citizens can go about their lawful activities without fear.”
He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for providing continuous aerial reconnaissance and strike support during the operation, as well as to other security agencies and local vigilante groups whose cooperation enhanced the effectiveness of the mission.
The GOC further directed the commanders of 12 Brigade Lokoja and 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin to sustain the operational tempo and maintain pressure on criminal networks until total peace and stability are achieved within the 2 Division’s Area of Responsibility.
