The Nigerian Army has rescued 14 people who were kidnapped along the Lagos–Benin Expressway in Edo State following a coordinated operation by troops of the 4 Brigade under the 2 Division participating in Operation WABAIZIGAN.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade, Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, said the operation was launched after troops on routine patrol received credible intelligence about the abduction at about 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in Ovia North East Local Government Area.
According to the statement, the soldiers immediately pursued the kidnappers along their escape route, applying sustained pressure that forced the criminals to abandon 11 of the victims before fleeing into the surrounding forest.
The Army said troops continued the operation on Friday with a clearance mission into the forest, where they successfully rescued the remaining three victims, bringing the total number of rescued persons to 14.
It added that all the victims underwent preliminary debriefing and medical examinations and were confirmed to be in stable condition before being reunited with their families or allowed to continue their journeys.
The military also disclosed that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the kidnappers who escaped during the operation.
Describing the mission as another success in its campaign against kidnapping and violent crimes, the Army said the operation reflected its intelligence-driven strategy and close collaboration with other security agencies.
The Army urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that public support remains vital in preventing crime and sustaining security operations.
Meanwhile, the Commander of the 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and resilience during the rescue mission.
He reassured residents of Edo State and road users within the Brigade’s area of responsibility of the Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, adding that troops would continue aggressive operations to deny criminal elements safe havens and ensure a secure environment for law-abiding citizens.
