Abducted soldier escapes kidnappers, returns to military base in Benue

A Nigerian soldier abducted by suspected kidnappers has escaped from captivity and safely returned to a military base in Makurdi, Benue State.

Security sources said the soldier, attached to the 130 Battalion (Main) in Baga, Borno State, was kidnapped on June 27 while travelling on welfare pass to the battalion’s rear base in Ogoja, Cross River State.

According to the sources, intelligence received by the 401 Intelligence Cell in Makurdi at about 11:53 a.m. on June 30 confirmed that the soldier had escaped from his captors and arrived safely at the 72 Special Forces Battalion in Makurdi.

The circumstances surrounding his escape were not immediately disclosed.

Military authorities are said to be making arrangements to transfer the soldier to the 130 Battalion (Rear) in Ogoja, where he will undergo debriefing, medical examination and other administrative procedures.

Security sources added that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the abduction and identify those responsible.