Troops of the Nigerian Army backed by other components of the nation’s security force have rescued an officer of the Nigerian Army, Major Christopher L Datong who was kidnapped by terrorists over three weeks ago.
Major Datong was kidnapped by terrorists during an attack on the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna State on August 24.
In confirming the development on Saturday, the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Colonel Ezindu Idimah said Major Datong was rescued by troops.
He disclosed that the operations leading to his rescue led to the destruction of several identified bandits’ camps in Afaka- Birnin Gwari areas of the state.
He also revealed that scores of bandits were killed during the operation, particularly, in the late hours of Friday, September 17, 2021.
Col., Idimah said the Division in conjunction with the Air Task Force, Department of State Services and other security agencies, immediately swung into action by conducting operations in the Afaka general area to find and rescue the officer after a directive by the Chief of Army Staff.
“The troops arrived at a camp suspected to be the location where Maj CL Datong was being held. At the camp, the troops exchanged fire with the bandits and overwhelmed them with superior fire.
“In the process, the gallant troops were able to rescue the abducted officer. However, the officer sustained a minor injury but has been treated in a medical facility and handed over to NDA for further action,” he said.
He lauded the efforts of the NAF, DSS , Nigerian Police and “patriotic Nigerians” who worked tirelessly for the release of the victim.
Before his rescue, the abducted Major was held captive for over three weeks by the kidnappers.
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