Nigerian Army troops
Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have successfully rescued a military officer and nine other abducted persons from kidnappers in Benue State.
The operation was detailed in a statement issued by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the OPWS Headquarters in Makurdi, on Wednesday.
According to Zubairu, on November 3, troops stationed at Kyado in Ukum Local Government Area were on patrol along the Zaki-Biam–Wukari Road when they received credible intelligence about kidnapping activities being carried out at a checkpoint.
The kidnappers, he explained, had disguised themselves as police officers to mislead unsuspecting travelers.
> “Upon receiving the information, the troops mobilised swiftly to the scene. On sighting the approaching soldiers, the kidnappers fled in disarray into nearby bushes,” Zubairu said.
He added that the soldiers immediately pursued the fleeing suspects, tracking them deep into the forest. The search led to the successful rescue of ten kidnapped victims, including Warrant Officer John Richard of the 6 Brigade Band, Jalingo.
However, two victims remain missing, and search operations are ongoing to locate them.
Zubairu further noted that all rescued individuals had been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
The Force Commander of OPWS, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their courage, rapid response, and dedication to safeguarding lives.
> “He particularly lauded the tactical commander for his exemplary leadership and proactive measures in combating criminal activities within the general area,” the statement added.
