Troops Rescue Kidnapped Man, Recover ₦10 Million Ransom in Kano

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued a kidnapped man, killed two suspected kidnappers and recovered ₦10 million reportedly paid as ransom in Kano State.

The operation took place in Falgore Forest, within Doguwa Local Government Area, following a joint security operation involving the Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local hunters.

Victim Abducted While Returning from Market

The rescued man was identified as Alhaji Kabiru Aliyu. According to the Nigerian Army, he was abducted on 11 October 2026 at Fanyabo village in Falgore Forest while returning from Yandoka Market in neighbouring Kaduna State.

The kidnappers later contacted his family in Yan Taburmi village and demanded a ransom for his release.

Following intelligence reports about the incident, security personnel launched an operation in the area to rescue the victim and apprehend those responsible.

The operation resulted in the rescue of Aliyu and the deaths of two suspected members of the kidnapping gang. Other suspected members reportedly escaped into the forest.

₦10 Million Ransom Returned to Family

The Army said a subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of ₦10 million reportedly paid by the victim’s family as ransom.

The recovered money was returned to Aliyu and his family, according to the military statement.

The Commander of the Army’s 3 Brigade, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, commended the personnel involved in the operation. He also urged residents to provide credible information to security agencies to help prevent kidnapping and other criminal activities.

The operation comes amid continued security concerns in forest areas around Kano and neighbouring states.

Monafrika’s Take

The rescue of Kabiru Aliyu and the recovery of the ransom are welcome developments. However, the incident shows the continued threat kidnapping poses to families and communities.

Security agencies must sustain efforts to rescue victims, protect vulnerable communities and bring those responsible to justice. Cooperation between residents and security personnel is also important in preventing further abductions.

The long-term goal must be to make roads and rural communities safer so that people can travel and conduct their daily activities without fear.