Residents of Makundang village in Mangor District, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria, have expressed relief following the rescue of three young women abducted by gunmen on Wednesday night. The victims, identified as Miss Fatigi Aguna, 19; Lovina Bawa, 18; and Barsheba Appolos, 18, were rescued unharmed by troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP). The rescue operation was launched after a distress report was received about the kidnapping incident at around 8:50 pm on November 5, 2026.

According to security sources, the troops swiftly mobilized to the area and established contact with the kidnappers, who reportedly abandoned their victims and fled into the surrounding bush following pressure from the security personnel. The swift response of the troops prevented what could have been another tragedy in the area, with residents commending the soldiers for their quick action. The community was thrown into panic when news of the abduction spread, with residents expressing fear and praying for the safe return of the victims.

A relative of one of the rescued victims expressed gratitude to God and the soldiers for bringing the victims back to their families safely. The family had been in distress since the abduction, not knowing if they would see their daughter alive again. The rescue has given the community hope, showing that when reports are made on time, security agencies can act effectively. Community leaders have urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information.

The spokesperson for Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Polycarp Oteh, confirmed the rescue, stating that the operation was part of ongoing efforts by security personnel to protect lives and property across the Joint Operations Area. Oteh appreciated residents for their cooperation with security agencies and appealed for sustained support through the provision of credible and timely information to assist security operatives in restoring lasting peace in the area.

The rescued victims were reunited with their families, and troops have intensified efforts to track down and apprehend the fleeing kidnappers. Security operations are ongoing to prevent further criminal activities in the area, with residents urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies. Public cooperation remains vital to the success of ongoing operations.

The rescue operation highlights the importance of collaboration between security agencies and the community in preventing and addressing criminal activities. Community leaders have commended the troops and urged residents to continue providing information to security agencies. The incident also underscores the need for sustained efforts to address insecurity in the region and ensure the protection of lives and property.

The Plateau State incident is a reminder of the security challenges facing the region and the need for continued efforts to address them. The rescue of the three abducted women is a positive development, and the authorities have assured residents that they will continue to work to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of the community. The incident also highlights the importance of timely reporting and cooperation with security agencies in addressing security challenges.

Key points

  • The rescue operation was launched after a distress report was received about the kidnapping incident at around 8:50 pm on November 5, 2026.
  • The victims were rescued unharmed and subsequently reunited with their families.
  • Troops have intensified efforts to track down and apprehend the fleeing kidnappers.

Reporting sources

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.