Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 195 Battalion, in conjunction with the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), have rescued a kidnapped victim during a counter-kidnapping operation in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
First Daily correspondent reports that the operation was conducted in the early hours of Friday, when the troops laid an ambush at Powerline, Uzairue, along the Afawosa-Iyora road.
It was gathered that troops observed the movement of suspected kidnappers in the area and immediately engaged them.
The engagement forced the kidnappers to abandon their captive and flee into the surrounding forest, leaving the victim behind.
The rescued victim was identified as Mr Mohammed Oboarekpe, 35, a resident of South Ibie.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Oboarekpe was abducted from his residence in South Ibie on Aug. 20, 2026.
Following the successful operation, the victim has been reunited with his family.
The troops expended six rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition during the encounter.
The latest operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces in Edo State to disrupt kidnapping networks and prevent criminal elements from establishing footholds along major routes and vulnerable communities.
Security sources said troops and other security agencies would sustain coordinated operations across the area to deny criminal groups freedom of action and ensure the safety of residents and commuters.