Army storms kidnappers’ hideout in Lagos forest, rescues two victims, kill terrorists

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 65 Battalion, working with the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes, have rescued two kidnap victims following a joint operation in Igbonla, Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The victims, identified as Mr Kelvin Okafor and Mr Alex Anato, were abducted while working on a farm in the community on Friday, September 4, 2026.

The security operation was launched after troops received credible intelligence about the abduction and the location of the victims.

Acting on the information, the joint team mobilised to the area and moved to the kidnappers’ hideout.

The kidnappers reportedly abandoned the victims and fled into the surrounding forest after sighting the advancing security personnel.

The troops and other security operatives gave chase, leading to the neutralisation of one of the fleeing kidnappers, while two others escaped deeper into the forest.

The two victims were rescued unhurt and subsequently handed over to the police for medical assessment, debriefing and further action.

The remains of the neutralised kidnapper were also handed over to the police for appropriate action.

The Nigerian Army said it remained committed to protecting lives and property, adding that troops would continue to work with other security agencies and local stakeholders to sustain intelligence-led operations against criminal elements.

It said the operations were aimed at denying criminals freedom of action and improving the safety and security of communities across the country.