Nigerian Army Rescues 14 Kidnap Victims After Highway Operation on Lagos-Benin Expressway

Benin City, Edo State — Fourteen people abducted by suspected kidnappers along the busy Lagos-Benin Expressway have regained their freedom after Nigerian Army troops launched a rapid rescue operation in Edo State, highlighting ongoing security efforts on one of Nigeria’s most strategic highways.

The rescue followed a reported kidnapping incident on Thursday night in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, where armed criminals allegedly intercepted travelers along the expressway. Soldiers attached to the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade, operating under Operation WABAIZIGAN, responded after receiving intelligence about the attack during a routine security patrol.

Military authorities said troops immediately moved into the area and pursued the suspected kidnappers, placing sustained pressure on the armed group as they attempted to flee.

Swift Military Response Forced Victims’ Release

According to the Nigerian Army, the security operation initially led to the rescue of 11 kidnapped victims, who were abandoned by the fleeing suspects during the pursuit.

The operation did not end there.

Troops continued search and clearance activities inside nearby forested areas on Friday, eventually locating and rescuing three additional victims, bringing the total number of rescued persons to 14.

Military officials confirmed that every rescued individual underwent preliminary medical examination and debriefing before being reunited with their families. Authorities said all victims were found to be in stable condition and were subsequently allowed to continue their journeys.

Search Continues for Suspected Kidnappers

Although the hostages have been rescued, security forces say efforts are ongoing to locate and arrest the kidnappers who escaped during the operation.

The Nigerian Army stated that intelligence-driven operations, coordinated patrols and collaboration with other security agencies remain central to ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks operating within Edo State and surrounding areas.

Security officials also encouraged residents, commuters and local communities to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying criminal hideouts and preventing future attacks.

Why the Lagos-Benin Expressway Remains a Security Focus

The Lagos-Benin Expressway is one of Nigeria’s busiest transportation corridors, connecting Lagos with several states across the South-South and South-East regions. Thousands of commercial vehicles, private motorists and interstate travelers use the route daily.

In recent years, parts of the highway have experienced recurring security challenges, including kidnappings, armed robberies and attacks on motorists. These incidents have prompted increased military deployments, joint security operations and intensified patrols aimed at improving public safety.

Security experts have consistently identified rapid response, intelligence gathering and cooperation between security agencies as key factors in reducing criminal activity along major highways.

Operation WABAIZIGAN’s Role

The rescue operation was carried out by troops participating in Operation WABAIZIGAN, a military security operation designed to strengthen internal security, respond quickly to emerging threats and support law enforcement agencies in tackling violent crimes within the operational area.

Military authorities say the latest rescue reflects continued efforts to disrupt criminal operations and improve confidence among residents and road users.

Army Commends Troops

The Commander of the 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, praised the soldiers involved in the operation for their professionalism, courage and determination.

He reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to protecting lives and property throughout Edo State, assuring motorists that security operations along the Lagos-Benin Expressway would continue as authorities intensify efforts to deny criminal groups safe operating environments.

What Happens Next?

Security agencies are expected to continue clearance operations in forested areas surrounding the highway while investigations into the kidnapping incident continue.

Authorities have urged members of the public to remain security-conscious, report suspicious movements promptly and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as efforts continue to improve safety along major transportation routes.

The latest rescue operation represents another significant intervention against highway kidnapping, even as broader concerns remain over protecting travelers on critical road networks across Nigeria.