Nigerian Army Rescues 15 Hostages, Arrests 13 Suspects in Nationwide Crackdown
The Nigerian Army has recorded major operational gains in a series of coordinated missions conducted between 29 and 31 August 2025, leading to the rescue of 15 kidnapped victims, the arrest of 13 criminal suspects, and the neutralization of terrorists across multiple states.
In the North West, troops of 17 Brigade and 1 Brigade Combat Team freed 12 hostages from terrorist captivity in Katsina and Zamfara States. Similarly, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke and 34 Artillery Brigade rescued three more victims in Nasarawa and Imo States. All rescued persons have since been reunited with their families or handed over to relevant authorities.
Security forces also stepped up crackdowns on criminal collaborators. In Kebbi and Sokoto States, a joint team of soldiers, police, NSCDC operatives, and vigilantes arrested six suspected members of the notorious Lakurawa terrorist network, seizing cash, fuel, and communication devices. In Taraba State, three impostors disguised as security personnel were apprehended and handed over to the Police.
Counter-terrorism operations in Imo State targeted IPOB/ESN hideouts. Troops dismantled sentry posts, destroyed an improvised explosive device (IED) factory, and safely disposed of multiple explosives planted along major routes. Recovered materials included IED detonators, CCTV cameras, and bomb-making fragments.
In the South-South, troops cracked down on oil theft, arresting two suspects in Akwa Ibom and Rivers States with over 2,500 litres of stolen petroleum products. Illegal refining sites discovered in Imo State with about 700 litres of crude oil and refined products were also destroyed.
Arms recovery operations yielded further results. In Delta State, two armed suspects were arrested with locally fabricated pistols, a pump-action rifle, cartridges, and mobile phones. Troops in Kano and Kaduna also recovered empty ammunition shells and other evidence after encounters with fleeing terrorists.
The Army reaffirmed its determination to dismantle terrorist and criminal networks nationwide, stressing that ongoing operations will create safer communities and support the Federal Government’s drive for food security.
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