Troops from Sector 7 of Operation Safe Haven, working alongside the Zango Kataf Police Area Command, Civilian Joint Task Force, forest guards, and local hunters, successfully rescued eight individuals kidnapped in Badurum Kasa Forest, Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The operation was launched following actionable intelligence that pinpointed the kidnappers’ hideout. Security forces mobilized to the forest around 4:23 p.m. on Wednesday, eventually making contact with the criminals at 5:59 p.m.
This swift intervention forced the kidnappers to abandon their victims and flee into nearby bushes.
In a statement, the Nigerian Army said, “All eight victims were rescued unharmed and have been reunited with their families.”
Those rescued include Mrs. Rashida Musa (19), Mrs. Hafsat Nuhu (18), Mr. Zakari Saleh (52), Miss Hasiya Yahaya (13), Mr. Ahmed Yahaya (14), Mr. Ibrahim Saiba (11), Miss Salma Yahaya (14), and Mr. Sophan Idris (18).
The Army added that efforts were ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects, with the aim of apprehending those involved and dismantling the criminal network.
Highlighting the significance of the operation, the Army said it “underscored its robust inter-agency synergy, agile ground manoeuvres and resolve to protect lives, secure critical routes and deny criminal elements freedom of action.”
