Nigerian soldier kidnapped since July escapes from terrorists’ captivity

In a remarkable turn of events, a Nigerian soldier who was abducted by terrorists in late July has successfully regained his freedom in Katsina State.

According to a counter-insurgency expert who confirmed the development, the soldier made a daring escape from his captors’ hideout located deep inside the notorious Kogo/Munhaye forest an area known to be a stronghold for criminal elements.

According to the source, Zagazola Makama, “A soldier abducted by terrorists on July 27 along the Gusau–Yankara road has escaped from captivity in Katsina State.”

The soldier, identified as a Lance Corporal attached to Operation FANSAN YANMA, was reportedly taken hostage by gunmen who have been terrorising communities along the Zamfara–Katsina axis.

He regained freedom on Thursday after finding his way out of the forest and was spotted along the Faskari–Maigora road. Troops on routine patrol rescued him and immediately evacuated him to their facility for urgent medical attention.

Security sources said the soldier appeared weak and traumatised after weeks in captivity but was stabilised by military medics.

He said, “A soldier abducted by terrorists on July 27 along the Gusau–Yankara road has escaped from captivity in Katsina State.

“The Lance Corporal attached to Operation FANSAN YANMA, escaped from Kogo/Munhaye Forest and surfaced along the Faskari–Maigora road on Thursday.

“Troops rescued him and moved him to their facility for medical care.”