SUNTV Global Channel | July 5, 2026
At least 22 kidnapped victims, including 15 church worshippers who spent more than two months in captivity, have regained their freedom following a coordinated security operation along the Kogi–Kwara border.
The successful rescue was carried out by the Kogi State Joint Security Forces, made up of military personnel, police officers, local hunters, and vigilante groups. The operation targeted criminal hideouts in forests that have long served as safe havens for kidnapping gangs operating across the border communities.
According to security sources, the sustained offensive mounted significant pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them to abandon several captives, who were rescued on Saturday night.
Among those freed were four residents of Idofin-Igbana, abducted in early April 2026, 15 worshippers from Ikerin Church in Eda Oniyo, who were kidnapped during a night vigil on April 28 and held for more than 60 days, as well as three members of ECWA Church, Omugo, who were among worshippers abducted during a church service earlier this year.
A regional security monitoring group, Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, confirmed the operation and described it as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks operating in the forests along the Kogi–Kwara axis.
The group said the coordinated action by security agencies compelled the kidnappers to release many of their captives, while several other rescued victims are yet to be formally identified.
Families of the victims have begun reuniting with their loved ones, bringing relief after weeks and months of uncertainty.
Security officials praised the courage and commitment of the personnel involved in the operation and expressed hope that intensified security operations would further weaken criminal groups responsible for repeated attacks on communities in the region.
The latest rescue comes amid growing concerns over the persistent wave of kidnappings targeting residents and worshippers across Kwara South and neighbouring border communities.
The development also follows reports that five worshippers abducted during an earlier attack on ECWA Church in Omugo reportedly died while in captivity, highlighting the urgent need for sustained security operations to protect vulnerable communities.
Authorities have pledged to continue the offensive against criminal elements while urging residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could aid ongoing security efforts.
