Troops Arrest 58 Illegal Miners, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Edo

On March 28, 2026, troops from the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, arrested 58 suspected illegal miners at an alleged gold mining site in Ososo, Akoko Edo LGA, Edo State. The operation was based on credible intelligence and was part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the area.

The arrested suspects were handed over to the Okpella Police Division for further action. Additionally, on March 27, 2026, the troops successfully rescued two female kidnapping victims, identified as Odio Momoh, 17, and Sonia Momoh, 23.

This rescue operation was initiated following a distress call regarding the kidnapping of the two girls near a fenced area behind the Nasem School in Auchi. The joint security team pursued the kidnappers into the bush, leading to the victims' recovery and subsequent reunion with their families around 8:30 PM.