17 kidnapped victims freed in Kaduna after coordinated operation

Security forces, with support from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), successfully rescued 17 kidnapped individuals in Kaduna following an intelligence-driven, non-kinetic operation.

The victims had been taken from Sarkin Fawa in Niger State on March 3, 2025, and were freed on April 9, 2025, at approximately 4:30 p.m.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the operation applied sustained pressure and strategic intelligence efforts, which ultimately forced the kidnappers to release the hostages.

“The success of this mission is a direct result of continuous intelligence gathering and tactical execution,” Makama explained on his Twitter page.

Among the rescued were both minors and adults, including children aged one to 13. Notable among them were William Ubadia, Samuel Ezekiel, and children like Duza Ezekiel (13), Ishaku Ishaya (12), and Sunday Ezekiel (8). Other rescued victims included Rebecca Ezekiel (32) and Alice Ezekiel (35).

Local sources expressed relief at the successful operation, though some residents voiced concerns about the growing wave of kidnapping in the region.

“The safety of our people must remain a top priority,” one local source said.

After undergoing medical checks, the victims were found to be in stable condition and are expected to be reunited with their families soon.