The Nigerian Army says its troops have rescued the nine abducted students of the Confluence University of Science and Technology in Osara, Kogi state.
In a post on its official X Handle on Sunday, the army said the troops, in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes, carried out a successful search and rescued the victims.
It said the troops encountered the scouts deployed by the kidnappers in the vicinity of the Osara Forests and nearby areas, resulting in a fierce firefight.
According to the post, the superior firepower of the troops led to the kidnappers abandoning nine of the kidnapped students, who were subsequently rescued.
It said the troops had, in a series of successful operations across the country, dealt substantial blows to terrorist groups and rescued several kidnapping victims while a notorious militant surrendered.
The post also revealed that troops in the North-West rescued two persons abducted by terrorists in Danzara Village in Kanoma District in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara.
It said the troops demonstrated their rapid response capabilities when they received a distress call on the abduction of the two locals by violent extremists.
According to the army, the terrorists, who had seized the victims in a red Golf car, were pursued by the troops but fled and abandoned the hostages without harm as a result of the confrontation with the troops.
In Katsina state, the post revealed that the proactive efforts of the troops led to the rescue of 17 abducted victims in the Solar General Area of Batsari Local Government Area.
It said the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, compelling them to abandon the kidnap victims, who were later safely returned to the care of Batsari Local Government officials.
“In Borno, a notable incident occurred when Alhaji Wosai, identified as a notorious member of the Boko Haram terrorists operating within Garno Village in Dikwa Local Government Area, voluntarily surrendered to troops.
“Wosai handed over his AK-47 rifle and a magazine containing two rounds of ammunition.
“These operations highlight the relentless efforts of the Nigeria Army troops in combating terrorism and underscore their commitment to the safety and security of all citizens.
“Troops’ resolve in addressing the threat posed by terrorists and kidnappers remains unwavering as they continue to work towards restoring peace and stability in the affected regions,” it said.
(NAN)