Troops of Sector 7, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), in collaboration with the Zango Kataf Police Area Command, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), forest guards, and local hunters, have rescued eight kidnapping victims from Badurum Kasa Forest in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
A security source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the operation followed actionable intelligence on the location of the kidnappers’ hideout. According to the source, the combined security team mobilized to the forest at about 4:23 p.m. on Wednesday and made contact with the criminals at approximately 5:59 p.m., forcing the kidnappers to abandon the victims and flee into the surrounding bushes.
“All eight victims were rescued unharmed and have been reunited with their families,” the source said.
The rescued individuals include Mrs Rashida Musa, 19; Mrs Hafsat Nuhu, 18; Mr Zakari Saleh, 52; Miss Hasiya Yahaya, 13; Mr Ahmed Yahaya, 14; Mr Ibrahim Saiba, 11; Miss Salma Yahaya, 14; and Mr Sophan Idris, 18.
The source added that follow-up operations were ongoing to pursue the fleeing suspects, apprehend those responsible, and dismantle the criminal network behind the abductions.
The rescue operation highlights the continued collaboration between the military, police, local vigilantes, and community stakeholders in combating kidnappings in Kaduna State. Authorities have urged community members to provide timely intelligence to security agencies to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of residents in forested and rural areas.
The successful operation also underscores the importance of rapid response and coordinated efforts among security agencies in rescuing abducted victims and neutralizing criminal hideouts. Residents of Kauru and surrounding communities welcomed the news of the rescue, expressing relief that the victims were unharmed and safely returned to their families.
Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations against kidnappers and criminal gangs operating in Kaduna State to restore peace and security in affected communities.
