Troops Rescue Eight Kidnap Victims After Gun Battle with Abductors in Plateau Forest

Eight kidnapped victims have regained their freedom after troops of Sector 9, Operation Enduring Peace, launched a pre-dawn offensive against suspected kidnappers hiding in Pandam Forest, Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The military operation, carried out around 3:00 a.m. on Wednesday, followed credible intelligence indicating that armed kidnappers were operating from the forest. Troops deployed from Namu Town swiftly moved into the area, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire with the criminal gang.

In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Chinonso Oteh, the troops came under sporadic fire as the kidnappers attempted to flee the scene.

According to the military, the confusion created during the gun battle enabled three abductees to escape from captivity before troops secured the area. Soldiers later carried out an extensive search of the forest, leading to the rescue of five additional victims.

“The operation, conducted at approximately 3:00 a.m. following credible intelligence regarding the presence of kidnappers in the forest, highlights the troops’ unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security, as well as protecting citizens across the Operation Enduring Peace Joint Operations Area,” the statement said.

The military confirmed that all eight rescued victims are safe and are being prepared for reunification with their families. Security personnel have also launched a manhunt for the fleeing kidnappers, with troops continuing operations to track and apprehend or neutralise the suspects.

Residents of surrounding communities have praised the military’s swift intervention and pledged to continue providing intelligence to security agencies to help dismantle kidnapping networks operating in the area.

Operation Enduring Peace reaffirmed its commitment to restoring lasting peace across Plateau State and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information capable of preventing criminal activities.