In a significant breakthrough against terrorism, Nigerian soldiers have rescued 59 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Southern Kaduna. The rescues took place on February 15 as part of the ongoing military campaign, Operation Fansan Yanma (OPFY), targeting terrorist hideouts in the Chikun, Kajuru, and Kachia areas.
According to a military report obtained, the victims included 22 men, 25 women, and three children. They were freed during coordinated operations by a joint team from the Nigerian Army’s 1 Division and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
“The victims were initially taken to the Nigerian Police Force Kaduna State Command Clinic before being moved to the 1 Division Military Hospital (1 DMSH) for medical evaluation and care,” the report stated.
Later the same day, military operatives rescued another nine kidnapped victims—two men, five women, and two minors—around Rijani. The soldiers provided them with first aid before transferring them to 1 DMSH for further medical attention.
Among the rescued victims, two women required urgent medical intervention. One, a pregnant woman, suffered a miscarriage, while another sustained a gunshot wound to her leg.
“Upon arrival at the hospital, the victims were thoroughly examined. The woman who had a miscarriage received urgent medical attention, while the other victim with an infected gunshot wound is also receiving special care,” the report added.
Kaduna State has been one of the regions worst hit by terrorist activities, largely due to its proximity to Zamfara and Niger states, where banditry remains a major security challenge. Southern Kaduna, in particular, has seen repeated attacks by armed groups, including bandits and the terrorist group Ansaru.
However, military operations have significantly reduced violent incidents in some parts of the state, such as Birnin Gwari, following a peace agreement between the state government and various armed groups.
“The ongoing military offensive in the Southern Kaduna forests has weakened these criminal elements,” the report noted. “This success highlights the effectiveness of coordinated military and intelligence efforts. The operations will be intensified to prevent further kidnappings and other criminal activities in the area.”
The rescued victims are currently receiving care and will soon be handed over to the Kaduna State Government for reintegration into their communities.
This development underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to restoring security in the region and bringing relief to communities terrorized by criminal gangs.
