In a decisive operation led by the Nigerian Army, two kidnapped victims were successfully rescued from the dense Babasango Forest in Kwara State. The rescue mission was spearheaded by Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division and Commander of Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMA.
The operation followed a recent bandit attack near Idofin in Omu-Aran Local Government Area, where three traders tragically lost their lives at Olegbede village. In response, Maj. Gen. Nnebeife conducted an operational visit to the Patrol Base in Babanla, leading troops deep into the forest where the victims were discovered and freed.
Lt. Col. Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, confirmed the successful rescue in a statement released Saturday. “The swift action of our troops demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting citizens and restoring peace in troubled regions,” he said.
The rescued individuals were immediately handed over to Oba Pius Oluwole Onidofin, the traditional ruler of Idofin Odo-Ase Ayekale, for proper care and reunification with their families. The monarch expressed profound gratitude to the military, urging for a sustained presence in the area to deter future attacks.
This operation is part of a broader federal initiative to combat criminal activity in Kwara’s vast forest zones. A full Army Brigade has been deployed to reinforce security across Kwara North and South, targeting hideouts and dismantling bandit networks.