Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed two suspected kidnappers, rescued an abducted man and recovered ₦10 million reportedly paid as ransom during a security operation in Falgore Forest, Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State.

The operation was conducted by troops of the 3 Brigade under Operation MESA, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local hunters.

The Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Major Babatunde Zubairu, disclosed the development in a statement on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Victim Abducted While Returning From Market

The rescued victim was identified as Alhaji Kabiru Aliyu, who was reportedly abducted on October 11 at Fanyabo village in Falgore Forest.

According to the Army, Aliyu was returning from Yandoka Market in neighbouring Kaduna State at about midnight when the incident occurred.

The kidnappers subsequently contacted his family in Yan Taburmi village and demanded a ransom for his release.

Joint Security Operation Leads to Gun Battle

Zubairu said troops acted on credible intelligence and coordinated with other security personnel to track the suspected kidnappers.

The joint team reportedly mounted an ambush along a route believed to be used by the gang, leading to a gun battle in which two suspected kidnappers were killed.

The operation resulted in Aliyu’s rescue, while other suspected members of the group reportedly escaped into the adjoining forest.

₦10m Ransom Recovered

Following the encounter, security personnel searched the area and recovered ₦10 million reportedly paid by Aliyu’s family as ransom.

The Army said the recovered money was subsequently handed back to the victim and his family.

It did not disclose the identities of the two suspects killed or provide further details about the whereabouts of the fleeing members of the gang.

Army Calls for Community Support

The Commander of the 3 Brigade, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops and other security personnel involved in the operation.

Jimoh said the successful rescue and recovery of the ransom demonstrated the military’s determination to tackle kidnapping and other criminal activities threatening security in Kano State.

He reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to sustaining operations against criminal groups, particularly those operating around Falgore Forest and neighbouring communities.

The commander also urged residents to provide credible and timely information about suspicious movements and criminal activities to security agencies.