Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, have successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt and rescued ten hostages during a counter-operation in Benue State.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, the operation took place on Monday, November 3, following credible intelligence about ongoing kidnapping activities along the Zaki-Biam–Wukari Road, at a location identified as the Quarantine Checkpoint.
The statement indicated that the kidnappers, dressed in police uniforms, were attempting to deceive unsuspecting travelers before being intercepted by the troops.
Upon receiving the alert, the soldiers quickly mobilized to the scene. However, the kidnappers fled into nearby bushes on sighting the troops. The soldiers pursued them deep into the forest, successfully rescuing ten abducted individuals during the operation.
Among those rescued was Warrant Officer John Richard, a member of the 6 Brigade Band in Jalingo. Two other victims remain unaccounted for as search operations continue in the area.
The rescued hostages were taken into safe custody for debriefing and later handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
Commending the troops, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, praised their swift response, gallantry, and professionalism. He also commended the tactical commander for his leadership and proactive approach in combating criminal elements in the region.
General Gara assured that the sacrifices of the troops would not go unnoticed, urging them to maintain high morale and uphold discipline in the discharge of their duties.
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