Troops of 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, under Operation MESA, have rescued a kidnapped victim. They neutralised two suspected kidnappers. They recovered N10 million in ransom. The operation took place in Falgore Forest, Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State. The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Major Babatunde Zubairu, issued the statement on Saturday.
Falgore Forest has been a haven for kidnappers and bandits for years. Its dense vegetation and limited road access make it difficult for security forces to patrol. In 2023, troops rescued several victims from the forest. In 2024, the army conducted similar operations. The pattern reflects the challenge of securing large forested areas. The army has increased its presence. The recovery of ransom is unusual. Most victims are not rescued. Most ransoms are not recovered.
The victim, Alhaji Kabiru Aliyu, was abducted on 11 October at Fanyabo Village. He was returning from Yandoka Market in Kaduna State at about midnight. The kidnappers contacted his family and demanded ransom. The family paid. Troops acted on intelligence. They conducted an ambush. They collaborated with the police, DSS and local hunters. Two suspects were neutralised. The victim was rescued. Other gang members fled. The troops recovered the ₦10 million and returned it to the victim and his family. The Commander, 3 Brigade, Brigadier-General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops.
Winners: The victim, who regained freedom. His family, who recovered the ransom. The military, which demonstrated capacity. The police, DSS and hunters, who coordinated. The community, which gained temporary safety. Losers: The two neutralised kidnappers. The fleeing gang members. The kidnap network, which lost men and money. No serious losers among the public.
Bottom Line: The operation rescued a victim. Two kidnappers were killed. N10 million was recovered. Falgore Forest remains dangerous. The operation was a success. The military must sustain the pressure.