Over 300 abducted Nigerians rescued in joint security operation
More than 300 people abducted in separate attacks have been rescued in a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving Nigeria’s security agencies.
According to a statement from the Nigerian presidency on Wednesday, 163 of the victims were kidnapped in February from Woro community in Kwara State, while another 145 were abducted from Niger State.
The victims were rescued from the Kainji Lake National Park Forest during a one-day operation led by the National Counter Terrorism Centre, with support from personnel of the Nigerian Army, Police Force, and the Department of State Services.
Authorities have not confirmed whether any suspects were arrested during the operation. The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention at a military facility before they are reunited with their families.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed the successful rescue mission, describing it as evidence of improved collaboration among Nigeria’s security agencies.
Kidnapping for ransom remains a major security challenge in Nigeria, with criminal gangs, armed bandits, and jihadist groups carrying out frequent attacks, particularly in areas with limited government presence.
The Woro attack earlier this year drew national attention after suspected militants invaded the community, killing residents and abducting several others. The attackers had reportedly announced plans to preach in the village before the assault, but residents did not attend the gathering.
Following the attack, President Tinubu condemned the incident and deployed additional military support to the affected area while blaming Islamist extremist groups for the violence.
The rescue operation comes amid continued security concerns in parts of Nigeria. Over the weekend, at least 52 people, including children, were reportedly abducted during an attack on a village and military base in Zamfara State.
