Troops of Sector 7, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have dismantled a kidnappers’ hideout in Kaduna State and rescued eight abducted persons during a coordinated security operation.
The operation, carried out on January 28, 2026, followed credible intelligence on the location of the criminal camp at Badurum Kasa Forest in Kauru Local Government Area. Acting swiftly, the troops advanced into the forest in collaboration with the Zango Kataf Police Area Command, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, forest guards and local hunters.
According to security sources, contact was made with the kidnappers at about 5:59 p.m., prompting the criminals to flee after being overwhelmed by the superior firepower and manoeuvres of the joint task force. The kidnappers abandoned their captives and escaped into the surrounding bushes.
Eight victims were rescued unharmed and later reunited with their families. Those freed include Mrs Rashida Musa (19), Mrs Hafsat Nuhu (18), Mr Zakari Saleh (52), Miss Hasiya Yahaya (13), Mr Ahmed Yahaya (14), Mr Ibrahim Saiba (11), Miss Salma Yahaya (14) and Mr Sophan Idris (18).
Military authorities said the successful operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to inter-agency cooperation, intelligence-led operations and sustained pressure on criminal networks, as efforts continue to secure communities and deny kidnappers freedom of movement across the state.
