By Elizabeth Tanko
FCT, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army has rescued Mrs Adonkie, wife of retired Brigadier General Basil Adonkie, less than 24 hours after she was abducted from her residence in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
The victim was kidnapped on September 1, 2026. Following the incident, troops of the Guards Brigade and Army Headquarters Garrison immediately launched coordinated pursuit operations along multiple suspected escape routes to locate the abductors and secure her safe release.
Acting on credible intelligence, the troops advanced through the Aco Estate, Goza Community axis and made contact with the kidnappers. Overwhelmed by the troops’ rapid response and superior firepower, the criminals abandoned Mrs Adonkie and fled into nearby bushes. She was successfully rescued at Angwan Sabo Village unhurt.
The Army said it immediately intensified the pursuit along the Aco Estate–Angwan Sayawa axis. Additional forces were also deployed to block likely escape routes and prevent the suspects from evading capture.
In a follow-up operation on September 2, 2026, troops intercepted fleeing members of the kidnapping syndicate near Gaube Village in Kuje Area Council. Two suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation.
Items recovered from the suspects include one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and 19 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
The Nigerian Army stated that clearance and tracking operations are ongoing across the general area to apprehend the remaining members of the syndicate and dismantle their network.
In a statement, the Army commended the vigilance and cooperation of residents whose timely information aided the rescue. It reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property in the FCT and environs.
“The Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies, remains resolute in sustaining aggressive, intelligence-driven and joint security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and enhancing security across the Federal Capital Territory,” the statement added.
The successful rescue and arrests come amid heightened security operations in the FCT aimed at curbing kidnapping and other violent crimes. Security agencies have urged residents to continue to provide credible information to security forces.
