Edo forest operation frees captive as soldiers neutralise three suspected kidnappers

Army troops have freed a kidnapping victim and neutralised three suspected abductors in an operation carried out in Sasaro Forest, located in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State. The Nigerian Army stated that the mission took place at roughly 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 11, 2026, after intelligence was received. It was executed by personnel from 195 Battalion (Reconnaissance), working alongside other security bodies. The individual rescued was Prince Michael Akao. According to the Army, three suspected kidnappers were neutralised during the raid, and three locally manufactured firearms, nine cartridges, and other miscellaneous items were seized. The victim was later moved to a hospital for medical care and was said to be improving under treatment. The items recovered were transferred to the Department of State Services (DSS), while the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) took possession of the bodies of the suspects who were neutralised. The operation is part of continuing security measures aimed at tackling kidnapping and other criminal acts within the Nigerian Army's 2 Division area of responsibility.