Troops Rescue 10 NYSC Members, Over 600 Others in Major August Operations
The Nigerian Armed Forces say troops intensified operations across the country in August, rescuing hundreds of kidnapping victims, arresting hundreds of suspects and recovering weapons and ammunition.
The Defence Headquarters says Nigerian troops carried out extensive security operations across the country in August, reporting the rescue of 610 kidnapped victims, the arrest of 373 suspected terrorists and criminals, and the neutralisation of 324 terrorists and other criminal elements. The figures were presented as part of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s monthly operational update.
Among those rescued were 10 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who had been abducted in Kogi State. According to the Defence Headquarters, the corps members were rescued from the Egume Forest area in Ofu Local Government Area. They were among a group of 15 corps members reportedly abducted while travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State, with operations continuing to locate the remaining victims and suspects.
The military also reported that 201 insurgents surrendered during the month, while troops recovered 88 weapons and more than 2,000 rounds of ammunition during operations across different parts of Nigeria. The figures highlight the scale of ongoing military operations against insurgency, kidnapping and other forms of armed criminal activity.
According to the operational breakdown reported by other Nigerian media, security operations were conducted across multiple regions, including the North-East, North-West and North-Central. In the North-Central region alone, Operation Savannah Shield reportedly rescued hundreds of kidnapping victims as security forces continued efforts against criminal groups operating across vulnerable communities and transport routes.
The Defence Headquarters said the August operations demonstrate the military’s continued effort to weaken armed groups and improve security nationwide. While the reported figures point to significant operational activity, Nigeria continues to face major security challenges, including insurgency, banditry and kidnapping. The military says operations will continue across different theatres as security agencies work to protect communities and rescue remaining victims.
