Troops rescue 6 kidnap victims in Benue

Troops from the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have successfully rescued six kidnapped individuals near the Gbise community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, announced the rescue on Saturday, noting that the victims were freed after receiving credible information and swiftly mobilizing to the area for their safe evacuation.

The rescued victims, identified as Gabriel Enujuba aged 50, Samson Magbo aged 43, Alkasim Modu aged 27, Manzo Bello aged 27, Sani Abdullahi aged 25, and Munza Yusuf aged 25, were reportedly abducted along the Chenchengi-Takum road or from their residence in the Ahmadu General area of Takum LGA in Taraba State. The rescuers explained that the operation was part of intensified efforts against kidnapping syndicates operating in various communities and major routes within the task force’s jurisdiction.

Zubairu highlighted that the troop actions were informed by intelligence and involved both patrols and human intelligence gathering to prevent criminal elements from operating freely in vulnerable areas and along critical routes. The task force has also directed its personnel to remain vigilant and responsive to emerging security threats, while simultaneously strengthening intelligence networks to track and apprehend suspected criminals.

The OPWS spokesperson emphasized the task force's commitment to safeguarding lives and property, creating a secure environment for residents, farmers, commuters, and other law-abiding citizens within its operational area.