A joint security operation in Kwara State has led to the rescue of two abducted children after operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and forest guards raided a suspected kidnappers’ hideout, killing two suspects and recovering arms.
The operation was carried out in a forest between Oba Isin/Owa Onire in Isin and Ifelodun Local Government Areas, where security operatives rescued 16-year-old Fatima Azeez and her five-year-old brother, Ibrahim, from captivity.
The raid formed part of ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping operations aimed at tackling insecurity across the state. During the operation, two suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Security sources said on Friday that efforts were ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle the remaining members of the criminal network.
Items recovered from the scene included an AK-47 rifle, a single-barrel gun, one fully loaded magazine, nine empty magazines, a mini solar charger and food supplies.
Officials said the cache of weapons and provisions suggested the suspects had been operating from the forest for an extended period.
The rescue comes just days after security operatives freed pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, highlighting intensified security operations against kidnapping syndicates across the region.
As of press time, security personnel were continuing search operations in the forest, while the rescued children had been reunited with their family.