Troops Rescue 25 Kidnap Victims, Kill 3 Bandits in Kaduna

Nigerian troops codenamed “Operation Safe Haven” have rescued 25 kidnapped victims and killed three bandits during a raid in Kauru County of Kaduna State.

The operation, dubbed Golden Peace, kicked off early Tuesday morning around 6 a.m. local time, targeting hideouts in villages of Ruwan Sanye, Randa, Rafin Gora, Libere Gari, and Libere Makaranta.

At Randa Village, troops ran into stiff resistance from the bandits, leading to a gunfight. Three bandits were killed while several others fled, likely with gunshot wounds. In the chaos, the kidnappers abandoned their captives, allowing the troops to rescue 25 hostages.

As the soldiers chased the fleeing criminals, they found signs of their retreat, including scattered items such as roasted chicken, tramadol, cigarettes, energy drinks, and clothing.

The troops also discovered an illegal clinic the bandits used to treat their wounded. The makeshift facility was destroyed to cut off their access to medical care. Officials say the operation is part of broader efforts to dismantle criminal networks in Kaduna and neighbouring states.

—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.