The Nigerian Army has killed two terrorists and rescued three kidnap victims during a raid in Esan Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to a statement on Tuesday, army disclosed that its officers also recovered arms and other items during the operation carried out along with the police and local vigilante groups.

It also said the operation was initiated following a report of a kidnap incident at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, on 13 July 2026. 

“Acting promptly on credible intelligence, troops in close synergy with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes, launched a coordinated pursuit of the fleeing criminals into their hideout in Esan Local Government Area of Edo State,” it said.

The statement also said the joint security team engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, leading to the neutralisation of two terrorists.

It added that the sustained offensive pressure compelled the remaining members of the gang to abandon their captives and flee the scene, noting that three abducted victims were rescued unhurt.

It said items recovered include three AK-47 rifles, thirty-nine rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three mobile phones and two power banks. 

“The recovered items are currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing members of the criminal syndicate,” it added.

The statement further urged the public to support security operations with credible information about criminal hideouts and collaborators.