Troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade, operating from the Forward Operating Base in Patigi, Kwara State, have arrested eight suspected kidnappers and rescued two victims during a raid carried out on Saturday.

The Nigerian Army said the operation followed actionable intelligence on the location of a suspected criminal hideout near Latandaji village in Patigi Local Government Area.

In a statement released on Sunday, Lt. Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, said, “Acting on credible intelligence, troops launched a tactical operation on Saturday, 21 June 2025, targeting a hideout on the outskirts of Latandaji Village.”

The suspects reportedly resisted arrest but were overpowered by troops.

“During the engagement, troops encountered mild resistance but swiftly subdued the criminals with superior firepower,” Nwankwo said.

The operation led to the rescue of two victims, identified as Amos Moses and Philip Michael. One individual, Mohammed Mohammed, sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and was evacuated to Bachita Teaching Hospital for treatment.

The troops also recovered two motorcycles and two expended cartridges believed to have been used by the suspects.

All eight arrested individuals are currently in military custody and will be handed over to relevant authorities after preliminary investigations.

The army reiterated its commitment to sustaining security efforts and ensuring the safety of residents in the region.