on 18 October 2026

By Aminu Aminu

Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed two suspected kidnappers, rescued an abducted man and recovered ₦10 million reportedly paid as ransom during a security operation in Falgore Forest, Doguwa Local Government Area of Kano State.

The operation was carried out by troops of the 3 Brigade under Operation MESA following the abduction of Alhaji Kabiru Aliyu in Fanyabo village, within the forest, on October 11, 2026.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Major Babatunde Zubairu, said Aliyu was kidnapped around midnight while returning from Yandoka Market in Kaduna State.

According to the statement, the kidnappers later contacted the victim’s family in Yan Taburmi village, also located in Falgore Forest, and demanded ransom for his release.

The Army said troops launched an operation based on credible intelligence, working in collaboration with the police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local hunters.

“The operation resulted in the neutralisation of two suspected kidnappers and the successful rescue of the victim, while other members of the kidnapping syndicate fled towards Falgore Forest,” the statement said.

The statement added that troops subsequently searched the area and recovered ₦10 million believed to be the ransom paid by the victim’s family.

It said the recovered money was returned to Aliyu and his family.

The Commander of 3 Brigade, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the troops for their alertness, professionalism and fighting spirit during the operation.

Jimoh reiterated the brigade’s determination to sustain its offensive against criminal groups and prevent further security breaches in the area.

He also called on residents to provide security agencies with credible and timely information to support efforts to maintain peace and security across Kano State.