The Nigerian army announced on Tuesday that it successfully rescued 11 individuals, including three children, who had been held captive for 92 days. The operation took place along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway late Monday, using advanced surveillance to track the kidnappers.
The suspects fled the area, abandoning the victims, who were originally abducted from the Gada Mallam Maman community in October, the army said on social media platform X.
Kidnappings and banditry have become a persistent security challenge in Nigeria, particularly in the northwest and central regions, drawing international attention. Some US officials have described parts of the violence as disproportionately affecting Christian communities, although the Nigerian government insists the conflict is driven by criminality, poverty, and socio-economic pressures, impacting both Christians and Muslims.
In recent months, the US conducted airstrikes against militant camps in northwestern Nigeria in coordination with the Nigerian government to disrupt extremist networks.
The army’s latest success highlights ongoing efforts to combat kidnappings and criminal networks, restoring hope for communities affected by the prolonged security crisis.