Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with villagers, have rescued a senior officer, Major M. D. Josiah, who was abducted in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.
Major Josiah was kidnapped on Sunday night when armed youths invaded his lodge, ransacked it, and whisked him away to the creeks of Burutu Local Government Area. He was later found tied inside a canoe with gunshot wounds on his leg and hand.
According to community sources, the officer was discovered by palm-wine tappers and lumberers near the spot where the kidnappers abandoned their vehicle. Local residents initially sheltered him at a nearby camp before moving him by canoe to Tuomo community. The military Joint Task Force (JTF) was subsequently alerted and evacuated him to a medical facility for treatment.
Confirming the rescue, Captain Iliyasu Rijau, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 63 Brigade, said the operation was successful due to collaboration with community leaders and members of Bomadi.
He stated, “The troops of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have successfully rescued a senior officer, Major M. D. Josiah, who was abducted by gunmen in Bomadi on 8 September 2025. The rescue operation followed collaboration and information sharing with community leaders. The officer was rescued at Tuomo Waterside in Bomadi LGA on 9 September 2025 and has since been evacuated for medical attention.”
Commander, 63 Brigade/Sector 1, Joint Task Force, South South, Operation Delta Safe, Brigadier General M. A. Shonibare, commended the troops for their gallantry and reassured the public of the Army’s commitment to peace and security in Delta State and its environs.
