Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade, operating under Operation WABAIZIGAN, have rescued 14 kidnapped victims following a swift response to a kidnap incident along the Lagos–Benin Expressway in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The rescue operation, carried out on July 30 and 31, 2026, highlights the military’s ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and enhance security along one of Nigeria’s busiest highways.
According to the Nigerian Army, troops on routine patrol received credible intelligence at about 9:30 p.m. on July 30 that armed kidnappers had abducted travellers along the expressway.
The troops immediately pursued the suspects along their escape route, forcing the kidnappers to abandon 11 of the victims as they fled into a nearby forest.
The Army said the soldiers launched a follow-up clearance operation on July 31, combing the forest in search of the remaining victims. The operation led to the successful rescue of three more victims, bringing the total number rescued to 14.
Military authorities confirmed that all the rescued victims underwent preliminary medical checks and debriefing before reuniting with their families or continuing their journeys. They were reported to be in stable condition.
Security forces have since intensified efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing kidnappers.
The Nigerian Army said the successful operation reflects its operational readiness and intelligence-driven approach to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes. It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing security operations.
Meanwhile, the Commander of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage and resilience during the operation.
He reassured residents of Edo State and motorists travelling through the Brigade’s area of responsibility that troops would continue to conduct aggressive operations to deny criminal elements safe havens and protect lives and property.
The latest rescue comes amid sustained military operations aimed at improving security across Edo State and safeguarding commuters along major transport corridors.
