In a major breakthrough against rising cases of kidnapping in parts of Kwara State, troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade, operating from the Forward Operating Base in Patigi, have arrested eight suspected kidnappers and rescued two abducted persons during a coordinated military operation.

The rescue mission, which took place on Saturday, June 21, followed actionable intelligence that led the troops to a suspected criminal hideout on the outskirts of Latandaji village in Patigi Local Government Area.

Confirming the operation, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Stephen Nwankwo, said the suspects attempted to resist arrest but were overpowered by the soldiers.

“The troops encountered mild resistance but swiftly subdued the criminals with superior firepower,” Nwankwo stated in a release issued on Sunday.

Two victims identified as Amos Moses and Philip Michael were rescued unharmed during the operation. However, one individual, Mohammed Mohammed, believed to be part of the syndicate, sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation and is currently receiving treatment at Bachita Teaching Hospital.

The troops also recovered two motorcycles and two expended cartridges believed to have been used by the kidnappers in their operations.

“All arrested individuals are in military custody undergoing preliminary investigation and will be handed over to appropriate authorities for prosecution,” the Army spokesperson added.

The military assured residents that security forces remain committed to stamping out criminal elements from the area and restoring peace.

“We want the good people of Kwara State to know that we are on ground and will not relent until all criminal threats are neutralised,” Nwankwo emphasised.