13 kidnapped students rescued by the Nigerian Army in Kaduna State

No fewer than 13 kidnapped students were rescued by troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter-terrorism operations in Kaduna State.

The rescued students comprise six males and seven females.

The Nigerian Army in a statement posted on X on Friday stated that rescuing the students followed a fierce gun duel with terrorists at Chigbolu village, Kachia Local Government of Kaduna state.

As stated in the post, “In aggressive offensive operations against terrorism and insurgency, Nigerian Army troops have obliterated yet another terrorist stronghold, successfully rescuing kidnapped students, and seizing a significant cache of arms and ammunition. Troops also eliminated some insurgents, while some others were captured alive.

“On September 12, 2024, acting on reliable intelligence, troops stationed in Kaduna State launched a highly coordinated operation aimed at rescuing abducted persons from violent extremist camps. Engaging in an intense firefight at Chigbolu village, Kachia Local Government Area, the troops overpowered the terrorists, forcing them to flee and abandoning their captives.

“A thorough sweep of the area led to the rescue of 13 victims, comprising 6 males and 7 females, as well as the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 87 rounds of 7.63mm ammunition, 4 magazines, a locally fabricated rifle and the sum of ₦192,220.00.

“Additionally, 5 solar panels, 5 mobile phones, dry rations, and clothing items were recovered. The rescued victims have been promptly evacuated to 1 Division Medical Services and Hospital for medical attention.”

The post also recounted that “In another decisive operation, troops in Kachia Local Government have intercepted two notorious terrorist logistics suppliers, Mallam Usman Waikili and Salisu Idris, at Kagarko village.

“The troops confiscated the sum of ₦1,306,700.00, three SIM cards, two mobile phones, three national identity cards, 8 ATM cards, two Moniepoint POS machines, an MTN MiFi and other items from the suspects.”

Similarly, “In a separate operation in Suleja, Niger State, troops stormed a terrorist hideout, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire. The troops’ overwhelming firepower led to the neutralization of three terrorists, while three others, identified as Mallam Halalu, Mallam Suleiman, and Mr. Musa, were captured alive.

“The suspects led the troops to a hidden armoury, where 3 AK-47 rifles, 121 rounds of 7.62mm (special)ammunition, and the sum of ₦4,079,000.00 were recovered.”