Troops from the 22 Armoured Brigade, stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Patigi, Kwara State, conducted a coordinated operation on Saturday that led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers and the rescue of two victims.
Two motorcycles and two used cartridges were also seized from the suspects, who are suspected to be part of a kidnapping network active in the region.
The operation was initiated following credible intelligence, according to a statement issued on Sunday by Lt. Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 22 Brigade.
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“Acting on credible intelligence, troops launched a tactical operation on Saturday, 21 June 2025, targeting a hideout on the outskirts of Latandaji Village, Patigi Local Government Area,” the statement read.
Lt. Nwankwo stated that although the suspects attempted to resist, they were promptly overpowered by the troops.
“During the engagement, troops encountered mild resistance but swiftly subdued the criminals with superior firepower.
“The operation led to the rescue of two kidnap victims, identified as Mr. Amos Moses and Mr. Philip Michael, and the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers,” he said.
He also disclosed that an individual identified as Mr. Mohammed Mohammed sustained gunshot wounds during the operation and was subsequently evacuated to Bachita Teaching Hospital for treatment.
“Further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of two motorcycles and two expended cartridge shells, believed to be used by the suspects.
“All arrested individuals are currently in military custody for preliminary investigation and will be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution,” Lt. Nwankwo added.
The military reaffirmed its dedication to flushing out criminal elements from the area and maintaining long-term peace for the residents.
