The Nigerian Army says its troops have rescued 33 people who were kidnapped by armed men in Tsafe, Zamfara State. The victims were reportedly abducted while travelling through the area on Saturday afternoon.
After receiving information about the kidnapping, troops and police officers were immediately mobilised to search for the victims. According to the Army, troops intercepted the kidnappers while they were moving the hostages to an unknown location. The gunmen reportedly opened fire but fled into nearby bushes after coming under pressure from the security forces.
Army spokesman Lt-Col Aliyu Danja said all 33 victims were rescued safely without casualties. Security forces are now attempting to track down the fleeing kidnappers. The incident highlights the continuing threat of kidnapping and banditry in north-western Nigeria, where armed groups frequently target travellers and major roads for ransom.Recent security successes The rescue follows several other successful operations: More than 300 abductees were rescued in Niger and Kwara states in a separate operation.
44 pupils and teachers kidnapped during a school attack in Oyo State were freed after more than 50 days in captivity. President Bola Tinubu recently approved salary increases of up to 80% for junior military personnel, citing the sacrifices of security forces fighting banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.
Despite these successes, widespread insecurity remains a major concern in Nigeria and is expected to remain an important political issue ahead of the 2027 elections.
