By Emmanuel Daniji

The Nigerian Army has said its troops rescued two kidnap victims and neutralised one suspected kidnapper during a joint operation in the Igbonla area of Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The operation was carried out on Friday, September 4, 2026, by troops of the 65 Battalion in collaboration with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes.

According to the Army, the victims, identified as Kelvin Okafor and Alex Anato, were abducted while working on a farm in Igbonla.

The Army said security forces launched the operation after receiving credible intelligence on the abduction and subsequently mobilised to the area where the victims were being held.

It said the suspected kidnappers fled into the surrounding forest after sighting the advancing security personnel, abandoning their captives.

The troops and other security operatives reportedly pursued the fleeing suspects, resulting in an encounter during which one of the suspected kidnappers was neutralised.

Two other suspects allegedly escaped deeper into the forest and were being pursued by the security forces.

The Army said the two victims were rescued unhurt and handed over to the police for medical assessment, debriefing and further action.

The remains of the suspected kidnapper were also handed over to the police for appropriate action.

The operation comes amid continuing concerns over kidnapping and other criminal activities in parts of Lagos State, particularly remote and riverine communities where difficult terrain can provide cover for criminal groups.

The Nigerian Army said it would continue to conduct intelligence-led operations in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to combat criminal activities.

It added that the operations are aimed at protecting lives and property, denying criminal elements freedom of action and improving security across communities.