The Joint Task Force, JTF, North Central Operation Savannah Shield, OPSS, deployed at Patrol Base Babasango, have rescued two civilians from the clutches of kidnappers in Kwara State.

A statement shared on its official X account, the army said on 3 June 2026, during an aggressive fighting patrol to Gidan Dogo Ekaa, the troops encountered and secured the victims who had daringly escaped their captors’ custody.

“This swift intervention highlights the Nigerian Army’s relentless commitment to neutralizing threats and restoring peace in vulnerable communities,” the statement said.

The statement added that the rescued individuals, Mr Temitope Samuel, 42 and Mr Mohammed Sani, 40,  were immediately taken into protective custody by the troops.

“Both men have been transferred to Patrol Base Babanla, where they are receiving comprehensive medical care, psychological support and all necessary assistance. Arrangements are now in full swing to reunite them safely with their families, ensuring their swift return to normal life,” it said.

The Nigerian Army said it remains resolute in its mandate to safeguard lives and property through sustained, intelligence-led operations under Operation Savannah Shield.

“We commend the gallant troops for their bravery and professionalism, while calling on the public to continue providing timely information that strengthens our collective fight against insecurity,” it said.

Bandits have released a video showing abducted former Nigerian Army spokesperson, Rabe Abubakar, and his wife, following their reported kidnapping.

The video was shared on Saturday in a post on X by journalist Bakatsine, who monitors insecurity in northwestern Nigeria.

In the post accompanying the video, concern was expressed over the abductors’ reported demands, particularly a call for the release of detained associates as part of negotiations for the victims’ freedom.

The post also raised concerns that meeting such demands could encourage a cycle of abductions and further insecurity if authorities proceed with prisoner exchanges.

He wrote: “This is the video released by bandits of former Nigerian Army spokesperson Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife following their abduction.

“We hope for their safe and swift release. However, the abductors demands are equally alarming, particularly their reported call for the release of detained associates.

“If authorities agree to such exchanges, are we not reinforcing a cycle that could embolden bandits and endanger even more communities across the country in the long term?

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The Nigerian Army has disclosed that troops from the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, stationed at Forward Operating Base, FOB, Karim Lamido, apprehended five suspected armed criminals on June 4, 2026, following a distress call regarding an attack by criminal elements on communities within the Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, it was reported that the troops promptly mobilized and proceeded to the location.

Upon their arrival, they encountered gunfire from unidentified assailants and responded with superior firepower, compelling the attackers to disperse in various directions. The troops then pursued the fleeing suspects and successfully captured five individuals.

The items seized from the suspects included two motorcycles, daggers, machetes, various charms, gunpowder, and five mobile phones.

In response to this incident, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, the Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, praised the professionalism, bravery, and valor exhibited by the troops during the operation.

He reiterated the Chief of Army Staff’s directive for all personnel to remain vigilant, continue efforts to eliminate criminal elements, and restrict their freedom of action within the area of responsibility.

He also assured the residents of Taraba State of the Brigade’s steadfast commitment to pursuing criminal elements wherever they may be hiding and to maintaining continuous pressure on all threats to peace and security until normalcy is completely restored across the state.