
Troops rescue kidnapped victims in Benue forest
Nigerian troops have rescued 14 kidnapped victims from a forest in Benue State during a coordinated security operation aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts in the area. The successful rescue followed actionable intelligence on the location where the victims were being held by their abductors.
According to security sources, the operation was carried out by a joint team of troops who advanced into the forest after days of surveillance. The kidnappers fled on sighting the advancing forces, abandoning the captives behind. All 14 victims were safely freed without any reported loss of life during the mission.
The rescued victims were immediately evacuated from the forest and given medical attention to assess their physical and emotional condition. After medical checks, they were reunited with their families, who expressed deep relief and gratitude to the security forces for bringing their loved ones back alive.
Security authorities confirmed that a search operation is still ongoing in the surrounding areas to track down the fleeing kidnappers and dismantle other possible criminal camps within the forest. They assured residents that sustained military pressure will continue until the area is fully secured.
The rescue has brought renewed hope to communities in Benue that have faced persistent threats from kidnappers and armed groups. Residents have called on the government to maintain a strong security presence to prevent a return of criminal activities in the region.
