The Nigeria Police Force says its operatives rescued 34 kidnapped victims and arrested several suspects during separate operations across Gombe, Sokoto and Rivers states between September 24 and 25, 2026. The operations also resulted in the recovery of firearms, ammunition, motorcycles and stolen vehicles, according to an operational update issued by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Iniedu. 

In Gombe State, police and other security personnel conducted a clearance operation in Ribado Ward, Funakaye Local Government Area, where four suspected kidnappers were arrested and two victims rescued. The operation also reportedly forced fleeing gang members to release another kidnapped victim, who was later reunited with his family. Three motorcycles were recovered as exhibits.

In Sokoto State, police tactical teams working with military personnel reportedly foiled an attack by armed bandits on vehicles carrying passengers on September 24. The security personnel engaged the attackers, forcing them to flee into a nearby forest and abandon their victims. Thirty kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed, while two injured victims were evacuated to a medical facility. In Rivers State, police intercepted a suspected kidnap gang after a high-speed chase, rescued one victim and arrested one suspect, recovering an AK-47 rifle, three rounds of live ammunition and a tricycle.

The police also reported other operations, including the recovery of two stolen vehicles in Lagos, the arrest of a suspect and recovery of a locally made pistol in Enugu, and the arrest of two suspected cultists in Benue, where a locally fabricated revolver pistol, two expended rounds of ammunition, a mobile phone and charms were recovered. The Force said investigations into the various cases are continuing at the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments.