Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully foiled an attempted kidnapping of farmers by suspected bandits in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, preventing what could have been another attack on rural communities in the region.

According to security sources, the incident occurred on June 22 when soldiers from the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC) Administration Battalion, while conducting a fighting patrol along the Kukata–Kotonkoro road, encountered armed criminals attempting to abduct farmers working in the area.

The suspects reportedly fled upon sighting the advancing troops, abandoning their operation before any of the farmers could be taken captive. The swift military response enabled the farmers to escape unharmed and prevented the attackers from carrying out their plan.

Security officials said troops maintained dominance in the area after the incident and continued patrol operations to deter further criminal activities and reassure residents. The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the military to protect farming communities and secure vulnerable routes across Niger State, where banditry and kidnapping have remained persistent security challenges.

The latest success underscores the continued pressure being mounted on armed groups operating in parts of North-Central Nigeria, as security forces intensify operations aimed at safeguarding lives, protecting livelihoods, and restoring confidence among rural populations. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.