Nigerian Army troops have successfully rescued an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Babagida Ishaku, and six other travelers who were abducted by suspected kidnappers on Monday at Sopp village in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The operation, carried out under Sector 6 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), followed a distress call received at around 9:30 p.m. The swift military response led to the safe recovery of all seven victims, who were unharmed.
According to a security source who spoke anonymously, troops arrived at the scene to find a blue Opel Vectra abandoned in the middle of the road with no occupants. This discovery triggered an immediate search-and-rescue mission in the surrounding bush. The source confirmed that military personnel soon made contact with the abductors, leading to a brief firefight. The suspected kidnappers fled into the bush, abandoning their captives during the confrontation.
The rescued individuals include ASP Babagida Ishaku, Auwulu Haruna, Dung Jerry Dang, Anas Idris, Hussaini Mohammed, Idris Abdullahi, and Mrs. Kangyang Sunday. They had boarded the vehicle in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, and were en route to Jos when they were intercepted and taken hostage by armed gunmen. The victims recounted their ordeal to the military, providing details that helped confirm the circumstances of their abduction.
The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects. Security officials remain vigilant in the area, deploying additional surveillance and patrol units to prevent further incidents. The successful rescue operation underscores the military’s commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining security in the region.
Plateau State has experienced increasing insecurity in recent months, with frequent reports of kidnappings and armed attacks along major highways. The rescue of the ASP and other travelers highlights the dangers faced by security personnel and ordinary citizens traveling through high-risk areas. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and report suspicious activities promptly.
This incident also emphasizes the importance of coordinated security operations across state boundaries. The swift military response demonstrates effective inter-agency cooperation and rapid deployment capabilities. As investigations continue, security agencies are expected to release further details on the identities and motives of the suspects.
The rescue operation has been welcomed by local communities and security watchers, who see it as a significant step in curbing kidnapping activities in the region. The Nigerian Army’s continued presence in Plateau State is expected to deter future attacks and restore public confidence in the security situation.
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