Army rescues four kidnap victims in Delta

Eric Patrick

Troops of 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, have rescued four kidnapped victims in Ugbolu forest in the Oshimili South LGA of Delta State.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Major Emmanuel Onoja, and shared on the Nigerian Army's Facebook page on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the operation followed an intelligence report on the activities of the suspected kidnappers in the area.

Onoja stated that troops of 63 Brigade conducted a successful raid on the kidnappers’ hideout on December 9.

According to him, troops engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to abandon their captives as they fled into the dense forest.

He said the victims are in a secure location receiving care and support, adding that soldiers were pursuing the fleeing kidnappers.

Onoja urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies, and  assured of the army’s commitment to eliminating any criminality.

The statement read, "In a bold and decisive operation, troops of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, successfully rescued four kidnap victims during a raid on a kidnappers' hideout in Ugbolu Forest, Delta State, on Monday, December 9, 2024.

"Acting on credible intelligence, the troops launched the operation and engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle.

"The rescued victims received necessary medical attention and support before being reunited with their families.

"Reports indicate that the victims had been held captive in the forest for several days, with the kidnappers demanding significant ransom amounts for their release. 

"The swift and coordinated action of the troops thwarted the criminals’ plans and brought relief to the victims and their families.

"The Nigerian Army continues to urge members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies promptly.

"The Brigade remains committed to eliminating all forms of criminality in Delta State and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens."