Hundreds of families can breathe easier after a major security operation in Kogi and Kwara states led to the rescue of 309 hostages and the neutralisation of 55 terrorists, the Nigeria Police Force has confirmed.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, explained that the operation targeted terrorist hideouts in remote, forested areas that had long been inaccessible and used as bases for kidnappings and violent attacks.
“These were people who refused to surrender and chose to fight to the end. That’s why 55 of them were neutralised. Let me emphasise, these were firefights, not extrajudicial killings,” Hundeyin said.
In addition to the terrorists killed, 129 suspects were arrested, marking a significant blow to the criminal networks terrorizing the region. Hundeyin highlighted that the operation was the result of months of careful intelligence gathering and multi-agency planning, involving the Police Mobile Force, Intelligence Response Team, Special Intervention Squad, Air Wing, and the military.
“Ground units and aerial teams worked in perfect coordination to secure the area, dismantle criminal hideouts, and bring hostages to safety,” Hundeyin added.
The operation is being hailed as a major victory for law enforcement and affected communities, who have endured years of fear and uncertainty due to kidnappings and attacks. Security officials stressed that the operation is ongoing, with continued efforts to track remaining terrorist enclaves.
“We are taking this battle to every identified enclave of bandits and terrorists. This is just the beginning,” Hundeyin said.
Aerial footage released by authorities showed forest settlements engulfed in flames, a stark reminder of the scale of the operation and the determination of security forces to restore peace.
Residents and local leaders have expressed relief, noting that the operation not only freed hostages but also restored hope to communities long under the shadow of terror
55 Terrorists Neutralised, 309 Hostages Rescued in Kogi, Kwara
