The Nigerian Army's Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, has successfully rescued six individuals who were kidnapped around Gbise community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. According to Ahmad Zubairu, the JTF Acting Media Information Officer, the rescue operation took place on 25 September. The troops received credible information about the release of the victims, prompting them to mobilize and evacuate them to a secure location.
The rescued victims have been identified as Gabriel Enujuba, 50; Samson Magbo, 43; Alkasim Modu, 27; Manzo Bello, 27; Sani Abdullahi, 25, and Munza Yusuf, 25. Preliminary investigations revealed that five of the victims were abducted along the Chenchengi-Takum Road. Munza Yusuf, however, was taken from his residence in the Ahmadu General area of Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The task force has intensified intelligence-led operations to locate and arrest members of the kidnapping syndicate responsible for the attacks. Patrols and human intelligence gathering have been strengthened around vulnerable communities and major routes in the area to prevent further incidents. This move aims to enhance security and reassure residents in the region.
The latest rescue operation comes amid continued kidnapping incidents along routes linking Benue and neighbouring Taraba State. The security situation in the area has been a concern, with several incidents reported in recent months. The Nigerian Army and other security agencies have been working to disrupt criminal networks and secure major roads and communities.
This is not an isolated incident of rescue operations in the region. Earlier, on 20 August, troops and police rescued 13 passengers who were abducted from a commercial bus travelling from Enugu to Abuja. The victims were rescued from Amla-Cho Forest in Otukpo Local Government Area, five days after the attack. These efforts demonstrate the commitment of security agencies to securing the region.
In another related incident, five victims, including a four-year-old boy, were previously rescued, while other passengers remained in captivity. The Nigerian Army and other security agencies have continued to conduct operations in parts of Benue to disrupt criminal networks and secure major roads and communities. These operations aim to bring perpetrators to justice and restore peace in the region.
The successful rescue of the six abductees is a testament to the efforts of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in combating kidnapping and other crimes in Benue State. The task force will continue to work to ensure the security and safety of residents in the region. The rescued victims are currently receiving support and care from the authorities.
Key points
- The Nigerian Army rescued six kidnapped persons in Benue State's Katsina-Ala Local Government Area on 25 September.
- The rescue operation was conducted after receiving credible information about the release of the victims.
- The task force has intensified intelligence-led operations to locate and arrest members of the kidnapping syndicate responsible for the attacks.
