Society
Emerging Relief In Kwara As Troops Intensify Fight Against Bandits, Record More Rescues
reclaiming territories previously threatened by criminal elements.
Emerging signs of relief are being felt across parts of Kwara State as troops of 2 Division/Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, intensify operations against bandits, rescuing more victims and reclaiming territories previously threatened by criminal elements.
In one of the latest operations, troops deployed at the Patrol Base in Babanla acted on credible intelligence and stormed a suspected bandit hideout within the Babanla Forest on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
During the raid, the soldiers rescued 25-year-old Mrs. Oluwabusayo Taiwo and her three-year-old son, Taiwo Irayomide, who were among the victims abducted at Oke-Ode on September 28.
The mother and child, who were found traumatised but alive, are currently receiving first aid treatment at the Patrol Base’s sick bay. Military authorities said they would be reunited with their family members once their recovery is complete.
In another operation the same day, troops on routine patrol along a suspected bandit route rescued 40-year-old tea seller, Mr. Mohammadu Sani, from Garkarima. The victim, who had been held captive, was discovered in a pool of blood after the bandits fled on sighting the advancing soldiers. One dane gun and a cutlass were recovered from the scene, while the injured victim is also receiving medical attention at the military facility.
Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, commended the troops for their swift and professional conduct, describing the recent successes as proof of the army’s renewed momentum in the fight against banditry. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the safety of citizens and assured that ongoing operations will continue until peace and stability are fully restored across Kwara and surrounding communities.
Residents have begun to express cautious optimism as the frequency of rescue operations rises and military presence increases in rural parts of the state long troubled by bandit incursions.
