Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have rescued six people who were abducted around Gbise community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The rescue was confirmed by the Acting Media Information Officer of the task force, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, in a statement issued in Makurdi. The victims were rescued on September 25 during a routine patrol conducted by troops in the area.
According to Zubairu, the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the whereabouts of the kidnapped persons and swiftly moved to the location. Following the rescue operation, the victims were taken to a safe location where they could receive necessary attention and further action could be taken. The rescued victims were identified as Gabriel Enujuba, 50; Samson Magbo, 43; Alkasim Modu, 27; Manzo Bello, 27; Sani Abdullahi, 25; and Munza Yusuf, 25.
Initial investigations revealed that five of the victims were kidnapped along the Chenchengi-Takum road. Yusuf told investigators he was abducted from his residence in the Ahmadu general area of Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State. The task force spokesman said troops had stepped up intelligence-driven operations aimed at identifying and apprehending members of the criminal group behind the attacks.
The task force is increasing patrols and strengthening human intelligence networks to prevent criminals from operating freely in vulnerable communities and along major roads. Zubairu urged personnel to remain alert, proactive and prepared to respond promptly to emerging security challenges. He further said the task force was expanding its human intelligence network to enable security operatives to identify, track and arrest those responsible for kidnapping and other criminal activities.
The operation is part of a broader effort to enhance security in the region. The task force has been conducting operations to reduce criminality and safeguard lives and property across its operational area. According to Zubairu, ongoing operations would continue to focus on providing a safer environment for residents, farmers, commuters and other law-abiding members of the public.
The rescue operation is a significant success for the troops, who have been working to improve security in the region. The task force has been conducting patrols and gathering intelligence to identify and apprehend those responsible for kidnapping and other crimes. The rescued victims are currently receiving attention and support.
The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the efforts of the task force to address them. The task force remains committed to reducing criminality and protecting the public.
Key points
- Nigerian troops rescued six people kidnapped in Benue State.
- The rescue operation was conducted during a routine patrol in the area.
- The task force is expanding its human intelligence network to prevent future crimes.
