30 kidnapped hostages have been rescued by troops of 177 Guards Battalion situated in Nasarawa State under Guards Brigade in conjunction with troops of Operation Wild Stoke and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Nassarawa State.
The victims were rescued when the operatives stormed the bandits, enclaves in Nasarawa State, FCT and Kogi State, neutrality several of the bandits.
NigeriaCrime.com learned that during the Joint Operations, the gallant troops with superior firepower subdued the bandits and neutralised two of them while several others escaped with gunshot wounds
According to the Spokesman of Guards Brigade, Captain Anebi Abakpa “the offensive was conducted following credible actionable intelligence on Bandits/Kidnappers Enclaves in the general area of Idu, Chikara, along the boundaries of Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Abaj FCT and Koton Karfe, Kogi State.”
He said the operations were the Brigade’s efforts at ensuring adequate security within its Areas of Responsibilities and to stamp out incessant kidnapping to protect the lives and properties of law abiding citizens in the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring States.
“During the Joint Operations, the gallant troops with superior firepower subdued the bandits and neutralized 2 of them while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
“The troops also rescued 30 civilians who had been held captive by the bandits.
“Unfortunately, a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force sustained a minor injury and is currently stable and receiving proper medical care at the hospital.
“The Troops also recovered 1 Rapid Propelled Grenade Tube from the Criminals and several military uniforms.
“The rescued civilians have since been profiled by the Nigeria Police Division in Toto LGA while the State Govt has facilitated their safe reunion with their communities and families respectively.
“As the operations continue, troops of the Brigade under command remain resolute and will continue to synergise with security agencies to rid the FCT and environs of all criminal elements.
“The Brigade remains alert at all times to keep the Federal Capital and its environs safe.”