The Nigeria Police Force has rescued 31 kidnap victims during two coordinated operations carried out in Taraba and Edo States.

According to a statement released on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the successful rescues are part of ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and banditry across the country.

"In a sustained effort against banditry and kidnapping, the Nigeria Police Force has again achieved major breakthroughs in Taraba and Edo States, rescuing 31 kidnapped victims in two separate operations," the statement read.

In Edo State, on the evening of Friday, July 11, 2025, police officers from the state command responded swiftly to an attack along the Fugar-Agenebode road in Etsako East Local Government Area. The ambush by suspected kidnappers resulted in the deaths of two individuals and the abduction of several others.

A joint team comprising police personnel and local security groups launched a rescue mission in the Obe Hill region near the Ajaokuta axis. The team engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing the suspects to flee with gunshot wounds. Fourteen victims were safely rescued from the scene.

Efforts are ongoing to track down and prosecute the fleeing suspects.

Similarly, in Taraba State, on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at around 11:45 p.m., police responded to a distress call following an abduction along the Wukari highway, near Federal University Wukari. Armed men had intercepted a white Toyota bus transporting 17 passengers from Enugu to Yola, Adamawa State.

Upon receiving the alert, security forces swiftly mobilized to the location. The presence of law enforcement forced the kidnappers to abandon all 17 hostages and escape into the nearby forest. All passengers were rescued unharmed.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the swift and courageous efforts of the officers involved. He noted that these operations underscore the police force’s unwavering commitment to public safety and national security.

The IGP further assured citizens that focused operations to dismantle criminal networks will continue with increased momentum.