Troops kill kidnappers, rescue victim in Kano

Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed two suspected kidnappers, rescued an abducted victim and recovered N10 million ransom during an operation in Falgore Forest, Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State.

The operation, conducted by troops of 3 Brigade under Operation MESA, followed the abduction of Alhaji Kabiru Aliyu at Fanyabo village in Falgore Forest on October 11, 2026.

A statement issued on Saturday by Major Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, said the victim was reportedly returning from Yandoka Market in Kaduna State at about midnight when he was kidnapped.

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The statement said the abductors subsequently contacted the victim’s family in Yan Taburmi village, also in Falgore Forest, and demanded ransom for his release.

According to the Army, troops acted on credible intelligence and mounted an ambush in collaboration with the police, Department of State Services (DSS) and local hunters.

“The operation resulted in the neutralisation of two suspected kidnappers and the successful rescue of the victim, while other members of the kidnapping syndicate fled towards Falgore Forest,” the statement said.

It added that a subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of N10 million reportedly paid by the victim’s family as ransom.

The recovered money was returned to the victim and his family, according to the statement.

The Commander of 3 Brigade, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops for their alertness, professionalism and fighting spirit during the operation.

Jimoh reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and preventing further security breaches in the area.

He also urged members of the public to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to support efforts to maintain peace and security in Kano State.