The Nigerian Army in a joint operation with vigilantes has killed a suspected kidnapper and rescued two victims abducted from a farm in the Epe area of Lagos State.

The army, in a statement on Friday said during the rescue operation in response to credible information, two of the three suspected kidnappers escaped and abandoned the victims, prompting the rescue.

The army said, “Troops of 65 Battalion, Nigerian Army, in a coordinated operation with the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes, have rescued two kidnap victims, Mr Kelvin Okafor and Mr Alex Anato, following their abduction at a farm in Igbonla, Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, on Friday, 4 September 2026.

“On sighting the advancing troops and other security personnel, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the surrounding forest. The joint team immediately pursued the fleeing criminals, resulting in the neutralisation of one of the kidnappers, while two others escaped deeper into the forest.

“The two victims were rescued unhurt and subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for necessary medical assessment, debriefing and further action. The remains of the neutralised kidnapper were also handed over to the police for appropriate action.”

The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to collaborating with other security agencies and stakeholders to sustain aggressive and intelligence-led operations to deny criminals freedom of action and enhance the safety and security of communities across the country.