Nigeria rescues 308 kidnapping victims in major operation

Nigerian authorities announced today the successful rescue of 308 hostages taken by armed groups, a figure that includes 163 villagers seized during a deadly attack earlier this year. The operation, described as the country’s largest single‑day hostage rescue, was carried out by the Nigerian military in coordination with local security forces in the northeastern region.

The abductions were attributed to insurgent groups that have long targeted rural communities in the area. In the earlier attack, dozens of villagers were taken and held for ransom, sparking a nationwide call for swift action. The rescue mission involved a coordinated assault on the suspected hideout, resulting in the safe release of all hostages and the apprehension of several suspects.

The operation has been hailed by officials as a decisive blow against armed kidnapping networks. It underscores the government’s continued efforts to restore security in volatile regions and to protect civilians from ongoing insurgent threats.